Balabay Balabayov is a revered Azerbaijani artisan, renowned for his mastery in crafting musical instruments adorned with intricate mother-of-pearl inlay and precious stones.

Notably, he was the first master, artisan to create images with mother-of-pearl on a musical instrument, a groundbreaking achievement in Azerbaijani art.

Balabay Balabayov holds the distinction of being the first Azerbaijani artist to have his work featured in the Louvre Museum in Paris. This honor was bestowed upon him when he presented a meticulously crafted mother-of-pearl-inlaid tar to the national leader, Heydar Aliyev, which subsequently became part of the Louvre's esteemed collection.

Among his remarkable creations, we can mention the famous trio, which includes the tar decorated with scenes from Nizami Ganjavi's "Khamsa", the kamancha decorated with images inspired by Fuzuli's work, and the saz that enlivens the "Kitabi-Dade Gorgud" epics.

Balabeyov's artistry has garnered international acclaim, with his pieces being showcased in various countries, including Turkey, India, Germany, Denmark, Switzerland, and Iran.