Number 924
Material Wool
Origin Qashqai
Style Animal
Type Tribal
Size 120 x 95
Age 1889
This is a startling artifact and an unforgettable spin on the concept of a nomadic bag. It is part mafrash, part khorjin, composed of 5 elements. The central section is a flat kilim weave while the 4 outer ones are carpet knotted with pile; they fold up to close into the shape of a trunk or suitcase. The side sections are hexagonal and almost pointy at the top. The upper section is a short rectangle and the lower one a longer rectangle that folds around and buckles into the upper one. The leather belts and iron clasps are original to the piece. This seems to be the only such example known to scholars and is of high historical and artistic importance.
“You don’t just buy a rug from Dr Maktabi... It’s an experience, a rich one! You learn about history, culture & art. And more importantly you feel euphoric!” Dr Siamak Abolhassani, Expert Medical Care Clinics, Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺
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 🇱🇻
Hadi Maktabi and his staff provide comprehensive and thoughtful services to collectors and textile buyers worldwide. His knowledge of antique oriental rugs and textiles, including many fine offerings from the Levant, is unsurpassed. We have been loyal customers for over five years and have visited his Beirut premises. He has worked with us upon several occasions to select the exact Ottoman and Levantine pieces we wanted for our collection. You can be sure of quality and honesty when dealing with Hadi. Penelope and Timothy Hays, Just In From The East Collection, Florida 🇺🇸