Number 2049
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style Medallion
Origin Mashhad
Size 660 x 420
Age 1925
The name Amoghly, the Shah’s royal weaver, needs no introduction. It is by far the single most exalted and lauded name in Persian carpet history. The Amoghly brothers rose to fame during the reign of Reza Shah Pahlavi (1925-1941) and were his preferred source for palace floor coverings. Their carpets were of a finesse and beauty never seen before or since. They were only active in Mashhad for around 20 years, ending in the late 1930s. Production was always limited but always incredible. It is extremely difficult to find an Amoghly carpet. It is the holy grail for any antique dealer.
The natural colors here radiate a vibrant energy. The density of floral formations is mind boggling. All this and no silk involved at all. This is the same effect you’ll find in the Shah’s palaces in Tehran, furnished exclusively by the Amoghly bros of Mashhad.
J’ai fait la connaissance de Hadi lors de la préparation de l’exposition « L’Empire des roses, chefs-d’œuvre de l’art persan du 19ème siècle » qui a eu lieu au Louvre-Lens en 2018 et à laquelle il a participé par le prêt de tapis exceptionnels. J’avais alors été impressionnée par ses connaissances et sa passion pour les tapis orientaux. Cette rencontre a marqué le début d’une collaboration riche et fructueuse. Elle a notamment permis au musée du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac de voir ses collections iraniennes s’enrichir de plusieurs tapis et tentures dont certains n’ont pas leur équivalent dans les musées occidentaux. Ce que j’apprécie chez Hadi ? C’est son professionnalisme, son dynamisme et l’engouement qu’il a pour son métier ! Hana Chidiac, Curator of the Middle East Department at the Musee Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, Paris, France 🇫🇷
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 🇱🇻
“You don’t just buy a rug from Dr Maktabi... It’s an experience, a rich one! You learn about history, culture & art. And more importantly you feel euphoric!” Dr Siamak Abolhassani, Expert Medical Care Clinics, Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺