Number (sold)
Type Village
Material Wool
Style Animal
Origin Saruk
Size 196 x 132
Age 1870
In the presence of genius and history. This is one of 5 known Tiger rugs woven in Saruk in the 19th century. A tiger pelt is laid out across the field with a clutter of seemingly random objects around. This carpet was woven for a leading member of one of the main Sufi brotherhoods of the time. Sufi dervishes would wander around the countryside with their meager personal possessions, all of which we see on display, all seeped in age old symbolism. The dervish would cover himself with a tiger skin pelt, its color symbolizing closeness to the earth and its nature referring to the brutal struggle against the forces of nature. The twin axes also reiterate this message. The cap, known as the 𝘛𝘢𝘫 or crown, was made out of camel hair which also linked the mystic messenger to the literal salt of the earth. A begging bowl called the 𝘒𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘬𝘶𝘭 dangles to either side and shows us how the wandering Sufi would earn his daily subsistence. Further down are two chessboards which reflect wisdom, patience and strategy; all of them qualities the brother was encouraged to cultivate. A sword lies flat at the bottom, a metaphorical device to smite away evil and temptation.
The intoxicating detail and incredible fineness are way beyond high quality Saruk commercial weaving. As mentioned, this was a special commission or honor granted to a high ranking Sufi seer. This explains how it has been so well preserved and looked after, as a communal heirloom. It is a historical document and living proof of an influential way of life that no longer is. Museum level.
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 🇦🇺
I have been buying and collecting oriental rugs for over 40 years. As a result I have had direct experiences with many dealers and galleries throughout Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia. The Hadi Maktabi establishment is distinct and unique. It is rare to find a dealer who not only has a discerning taste and excellent choice of rugs. But with Hadi, the experience is one of an erudite oriental rug scholar paired with years of family experiences and traditions dealing in rugs, carpets and textiles. The available choices, diversity and quality of his stock is awesome. It is always a pleasure. Highly recommended and satisfying. As a collector he has become not only a partner of choice, knowledge and information but also a valued friend. Robert Bell, CEO Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, U.K. 🇬🇧
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 🇫🇷
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