Number 934
Material Wool
Style All Over
Origin Turkmen
Type Central Asian
Size 165 x 94
Age 1910
Of uncertain Central Asian provenance, this remarkable thing is remarkable to say the least. While the rug itself is rectangular and straight, the pattern most certainly isn't. There are two possible explanations. Either this was created on opium or it was a young girl's work. Nomads would teach their daughters the art of weaving around the age of 8 to 10 years old, so that they would make their mistakes under a watchful and instructive eye. The rugs that these children make were mostly crooked and naive, much like drawings that young schoolchildren do. And they generally do not survive, which makes this unique object a truly worthy study piece and a really collectible rug.
I first met Dr. Maktabi as a lecturer on carpet history and was captivated by his passion for the subject. Only later I knew him as a dealer, though even in our financial transactions, Hadi has been a gentle guide and friend. He has understood my taste and interests and made wonderful suggestions, but never in a pushy way. That is to say I have enjoyed working with him on several levels and wish to continue our excellent relations and dealings far into the future. A. Harvey Pincis, formerly Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah Museum (Kuwait), Latvia 🇱🇻
The idea of purchasing valuable rugs and other artwork online from an overseas seller is daunting for several reasons, not least of which is the fact that, not being able to examine and feel the rug for yourself, you are never entirely certain that the origin, age or condition of the rug corresponds with the dealer’s description. For me, I could never take this step unless I had absolute trust in the integrity of the dealer, and my recent experience with Hadi confirms that my faith in him was well placed. Every detail of the antique rug expertly explained by Hadi was accurate and when I finally received the actual rug, it turned out to be even more stunning than his photos depicted. F. Alsagoff, Singapore
I must say this one of the most enriching carpet purchase experiences I ever had. This was not a mere transaction but more an experience about art and history. Dr Maktabi's experience and knowledge in this space is second to none. Highly recommended! R.A., Doha, Qatar