Number 1101
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Tree
Size 203 x 137
Age 1890
This masterpiece belongs to a select group of 4 known Cypress tree rugs woven by one of the preeminent masters of carpet weaving in Isfahan in the late 19th century. Grand Master Abdolsamad, like Agha Ahmad known by his first name, accomplished a terrific mastery in the art of rendering the tree of life, namely by the remarkable form of the slender cypress and its multitude leaves, each depicted individually. His signature appears above the tip of the mihrab prayer niche. Below the tree if you look closely you can make out two iterations of the phrase "Ya Ali", thereby granting the carpet additional mystical Sufi levels of meaning. A very similar carpet signed by Abdolsamad lies in the Carpet Museum of Iran, formerly in the royal collections. It appeared on the cover of the museum's inauguration catalog. At present this is the only example of Abdolsamad's oeuvre that is available on the market. A historical masterpiece that will augment in value with time.
To me personally there is no surprise, event or frankly anything that gets me more excited than the purchase of a treasured piece of understated artwork such as that of a proper vintage/antique carpet. The sourcing, grading and authentication of these pieces is no small task but is of the highest importance. Through the respected dealer Hadi Maktabi all that is guaranteed, and rest assured the one thing I can guarantee personally as a client is a first class service from the initial selection process till it gets delivered right to your door step. It was an undeniably special experience, with hundreds of carpets to choose from, will definitely be visiting again. Thank you dear Hadi. Habeeb Al Monawer, Kuwait 🇰🇼
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 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