Number 9
Type Workshop
Style All Over
Material Wool & Silk
Origin Kerman
Size 485 x 325
Age 1850
Acquiring this carpet is sufficient to lift any collection to museum level. This is a crucial missing link in connecting Safavid carpets to Qajar ones namely those woven in Tehran for the royal palaces. The Shah Abbas field of all over lotus flowers, palmettes, cloud bands and scrolling vinery takes the best of the 17th century Isfahan carpets and marries them with the Animal rugs of 16th century Kashan. The composition is highlighted with silk all across. The combination of burgundy field and emerald green border is indeed eye-catching.
The signature of Ostad Amir Kermani places it firmly in Kerman during the first half of the 19th century. It remains one of a handful of signed Master Artist carpets from that period. This carpet served as a prototype for Tehran carpets woven for the Qajar court in the 2nd half of the 1800s, all of which adopted its style but in simpler expression. The intensity of drawing, the richness of detailing, the utter complexity of pattern and lushness of the silk highlights.. all speak of one of the finest carpets in the world and one of the most collectible.
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
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 🇫🇷
“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 🇦🇺