Number 99
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Size 210 x 139
Age 1900
Agha Ahmad Ajami was, after Shoreshi, the foremost carpet artist in Isfahan in the pre-Seirafian period prior to the 1930s. His carpets were so famous and his influence so long-lasting that an entire generation of cotton-warped Isfahan rugs are eponymously called "Ahmadi" after him. However, those actually signed by him are tremendously rare and hard to come by. They remain the real deal naturally. It is fascinating to see how he confidently signed his first name only, a sign of his stature and fame, and added the noble title Agha in front.
His speciality was in pictorial subjects inspired by figures from Persian history and mythology. The dominant color palette was earthy tones (beige, cream, gold) and reds.
This carpet depicts an ancient Persian queen called Pourandokht, the daughter of the last Sassanian Shahanshah in the 7th century. The border depicts roundels of other mythical kings separated by elegant calligraphic cartouches.
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 🇰🇼
You can't only be a customer of Hadi Maktabi. While his main purpose is rug dealing, he starts with story telling and ends with history selling. That's what I call high-end art curating and closing it all with an entertaining friendship. George El Hani, CEO Levica, Lebanon 🇱🇧
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
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