Number 1752
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Tabriz
Size 60 x 88
Age 1943-44
Signed by the legendary Grand Master Aalabaf of Tabriz
Inscribed PGC : Persian Gulf Command
The PGC was set up to be the American forward base in the Middle East during the second world war. In Iran specifically, through which the Americans supplied petroleum and heavy weaponry to Soviet Russia. What Cold War? The mother of all October surprises. It’s a unique facet of 20th century military history and it’s immortalized in this rug. It’s also a timely reminder of how close the two countries were until recent times.
As storms of violence herald an engulfing darkness and clouds of hatred rain down death and destruction, it feels as if the end of history is near and that the final chapter, as always, will be set in the Middle East.
But we’ve been here before.
With the same players, the usual villains.
In fact we’ve been here so many hundreds of times across thousands of years. Our lands are where the Tree of Life was planted and where Armageddon is supposed to happen. For now, as the clock counts down to yet another Wild West showdown, the devil holds all the cards in his hand and watches as the dogs of war howl and howl.
Why don’t they give peace a chance?
As a carpet collector of 30 years, I have noticed a decline in the amount of truly unique and high quality carpets on the market. I have also noted a decline in the knowledge of merchants, generally. Hadi Maktabi stands against this trend as a both a curator for and an educator of his clients. His offerings are well-researched, museum quality carpets that are both singular and expertly chosen. In dealing with Hadi, I have experienced excellent communication, a high standard of service and extremely pleasant interactions. Warren D., Hong Kong 🇭🇰
Acquiring a piece from my dear friend Hadi is truly a journey. We start that journey with a lesson and detailed background on any piece that is of interest. After a thorough discussion regarding the chosen piece or should I say marvel, since Hadi's pieces are truly marvels, Hadi guides us into why he would advise us to acquire it or go for another of his marvels that would suit us more than the one initially chosen. This sincere advice always makes us feel that we are generously taken care of by Hadi. The learning process and honesty in guidance make us go back only to Hadi whenever we are looking for our next beautiful piece for our homes. All I can say is thank you Hadi for your impeccable guidance and service. Abdullah Al-Awadhi, Kuwait 🇰🇼
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 🇦🇺