Number AH43
Type Village
Material Wool
Style Flowery
Origin Malayer
Size 115 x 191
Age 1870
An extremely attractive and finely woven carpet, yet a very peculiar and puzzling one indeed. In spirit it is quite related to French Aubusson needlework and is a great example of the period of Qajar infatuation with the court arts of the French Second Empire during the reign of Napoleon III (1851-71), known as π'ππ’π₯ππ§π πΏππ¨ ππ€π¨ππ¨. The rich theme of roses and flowering bouquets, an early and unique interpretation of the ππ€π‘ πππ§ππ£π theme, is not presented in the typical Persian manner but with a more European sensibility. The border suggests a wooden frame. The indigo is fascinatingly saturated and approximates pitch black, acting as a powerful negative space among the floral elements. In terms of weave, it is super fine and suggests a Bakhtiari Khan workshop whereas the dyes hint at Malayer. All in all, a unique and collectible artwork.
I first met Dr. Maktabi as a lecturer on carpet history and was captivated by his passion for the subject. Only later I knew him as a dealer, though even in our financial transactions, Hadi has been a gentle guide and friend. He has understood my taste and interests and made wonderful suggestions, but never in a pushy way. That is to say I have enjoyed working with him on several levels and wish to continue our excellent relations and dealings far into the future. A. Harvey Pincis, formerly Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah Museum (Kuwait), Latvia π±π»
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 π¦πΊ
βYou donβt just buy a rug from Dr Maktabi... Itβs an experience, a rich one! You learn about history, culture & art. And more importantly you feel euphoric!β Dr Siamak Abolhassani, Expert Medical Care Clinics, Victoria, Australia π¦πΊ