Number 637
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Medallion
Size 400 x270
Age 1920
We see here the most famous and recognizable of all Isfahan designs, the Eslimi spiraling arabesques that twirl so musically around the medallion. What catches both the eye and breath is the alluring turquoise blue which is inspired by and woven in homage to the city's rich architectural history best symbolized by the blue capped domes and minarets from the Seljuk and Safavid periods. The tonality of the blue here, however, is different from later Isfahan carpet blues. It has an aura, a depth that invite the viewer in to an azure sea and loses them in its waves. The abrashed field adds to the allure and mystique and is far from flat or tepid as other blues may end up looking. This is due to the formidable vegetable dyes used in this carpet. They, and the unorthodox size, confirm this is an early (i.e. very old) Isfahan masterpiece a full generation before the establishment of the Seirafian workshops.
Purchasing carpets from Hadi Maktabi was the epitome of professionalism and joy. Hadi is an expert curator, purveyor, historian and story teller. His passion, knowledge, professionalism and expertise are evident every step of the way. With a wide range of choices and prices, prompt service, and fast sipping, we had our carpets in Sydney in a matter of days. The ultimate flying carpet experience! Zeina Tebbutt, Sidney, Australia 🇦🇺
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 🇫🇷
As a carpet collector of 30 years, I have noticed a decline in the amount of truly unique and high quality carpets on the market. I have also noted a decline in the knowledge of merchants, generally. Hadi Maktabi stands against this trend as a both a curator for and an educator of his clients. His offerings are well-researched, museum quality carpets that are both singular and expertly chosen. In dealing with Hadi, I have experienced excellent communication, a high standard of service and extremely pleasant interactions. Warren D., Hong Kong đź‡đꇰ