Number HA846
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Kerman
Size 268 x 174
Age 1850
This exceptional pictorial artwork dates from the first half of the 19th century. It is a staggering feat of Persian art: scenes of heroism and valor from Ferdowsiβs 1,000 year old epic poem πππππ£ππ’ππ brought to life in Persian painting in the style of the royal court of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (1797β1834) and then recreated by a Kermani master weaver.
The whole composition is one lengthy and entire story of the royal sport of princes and kings: πΎππ€πππ£. Or, as we know it nowadays, Polo. Dozens of royal princes and courtiers engage in this game on horseback in the great outdoors. They are mostly wearing Qajar royal robes as was common in court painting in FASβs reign. Apart from the Sassanid Shahanshah at the top right π
Itβs likely to be the oldest Polo carpet in history, adding to its significance. A lot of action unfolds in the borders: a very long band of calligraphy all around the main field recounts the exploits of Siavash. These are verses directly culled from the Shahnameh, very elegantly inwoven and inscribed in fine π£ππ¨π©ππ‘ππ¦ script.
The outer border is flabbergasting and exhilarating in different ways. A whole menagerie of wild and exotic animals maraud around the 4 edges. Itβs the first and only instance Iβve seen of a gorilla π¦ on an antique carpet.
So much more to add but thatβs already too much to digest. A historical masterpiece for all time. Unparalleled storytelling, unequalled beauty, unrivalled creativity and finesse. The braided fringes will tell you how finely woven this is, while the natural dyes speak for themselves. The oxidised browns and beiges indicate the almost 200 years that have passed!
AVAILABLE to museums & private collections, please email or DM.
βYou donβt just buy a rug from Dr Maktabi... Itβs an experience, a rich one! You learn about history, culture & art. And more importantly you feel euphoric!β Dr Siamak Abolhassani, Expert Medical Care Clinics, Victoria, Australia π¦πΊ
Acquiring a piece from my dear friend Hadi is truly a journey. We start that journey with a lesson and detailed background on any piece that is of interest. After a thorough discussion regarding the chosen piece or should I say marvel, since Hadi's pieces are truly marvels, Hadi guides us into why he would advise us to acquire it or go for another of his marvels that would suit us more than the one initially chosen. This sincere advice always makes us feel that we are generously taken care of by Hadi. The learning process and honesty in guidance make us go back only to Hadi whenever we are looking for our next beautiful piece for our homes. All I can say is thank you Hadi for your impeccable guidance and service. Abdullah Al-Awadhi, Kuwait π°πΌ
I have been buying and collecting oriental rugs for over 40 years. As a result I have had direct experiences with many dealers and galleries throughout Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia. The Hadi Maktabi establishment is distinct and unique. It is rare to find a dealer who not only has a discerning taste and excellent choice of rugs. But with Hadi, the experience is one of an erudite oriental rug scholar paired with years of family experiences and traditions dealing in rugs, carpets and textiles. The available choices, diversity and quality of his stock is awesome. It is always a pleasure. Highly recommended and satisfying. As a collector he has become not only a partner of choice, knowledge and information but also a valued friend. Robert Bell, CEO Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, U.K. π¬π§
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