Number 1703
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Tabriz
Size 167 x 120
Age 1909
Interesting fact: this rare pictorial depiction of the last Qajar monarch is sepia tinted with no other colors because it is inspired by / copied from a "black and white" photograph, as they were back in the very early 1900s.
It was woven in the famed Hajji Jalili atelier in Tabriz.
We see the young Shah in his regal attire in a solemn pose. He would have posed for hours and hours for the photographer. Who knows, perhaps an artist was painting him simultaneously.
The inscription at the bottom reinforces this historical background. It says:
The glorious king of the Constitution, Soltan Ahmad Shah Qajar, may God preserve his rule.
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»
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 π°πΌ
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