Number 1864
Material Wool
Style Prayer Rug
Type Anatolian
Origin Anatolian
Size 367 x 297
Age 1870
This has to be the largest prayer carpet I have seen, with an imposing 𝘮𝘦𝘩𝘳𝘢𝘣 prayer arch hanging over a sweet, plain ivory field. It is a standout carpet in addition to being a collectible work of Islamic Art.
The quality of wool is far softer and more supple than the usual Ushak quality. The range of dye materials is wider and frankly much happier than we are used to seeing. The weave is tighter also. Obviously this was a special commission on behalf of a high ranking official in the Ottoman elite. Alternatively, this could be something else entirely: possibly an Armenian weave in Sivas or Istanbul itself rather than Ushak.
There is endless joy in observing the extraordinary balance and contrast between the rich border and 𝘮𝘦𝘩𝘳𝘢𝘣 spandrels with the stark, empty field. And terrific delight in enjoying the fabulous colors: green, pink, and golden yellow. Colors that would not be out of place on a Sevres porcelain vessel.
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 🇭🇰
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 🇫🇷
“I practically furnished my entire home with carpets from Hadi. The process was not only a joy but it was also a learning experience for me. Hadi was super helpful in identifying the right pieces for my home that would both work with my taste, budget, sizes required and that would be a good investment for my family. Hadi’s collection is second to none, and his knowledge and service is truly the blessing on top.” Amr Banaja, Public Investment Fund, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦