Number 2002
Type Workshop
Style Prayer Rug
Material Wool & Silk
Origin Kashan
Size 226 x 134
Age 1900
Delightful and unique, this beautiful prayer rug is a collector's gem. It obviously is a special commission because it stands out (and is outstanding) for various reasons:
Everything is in silk, apart from the Tarboushi (Fez hat colored) red, which is ultra fine Kork lambswool. The mixed media reflect natural light in different ways, creating a subtle, supple effect.
It was made in a very particular Pardeh size, quite different from the standard Qaliche.
The dye materials are outstanding: the red is glorious and attractive while the purplish lilac of the border is magnificent.
In architectural compassion, the mehrab is supported by twin columns. It rises gracefully and, from its apex, dangles a brilliantly designed oil lamp along 3 chains--all executed in shiny silk. What is most eye catching is the podium rising partially from the center of the base, as if aiming to meet the lantern but not quite reaching.
I have been buying and collecting oriental rugs for over 40 years. As a result I have had direct experiences with many dealers and galleries throughout Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia. The Hadi Maktabi establishment is distinct and unique. It is rare to find a dealer who not only has a discerning taste and excellent choice of rugs. But with Hadi, the experience is one of an erudite oriental rug scholar paired with years of family experiences and traditions dealing in rugs, carpets and textiles. The available choices, diversity and quality of his stock is awesome. It is always a pleasure. Highly recommended and satisfying. As a collector he has become not only a partner of choice, knowledge and information but also a valued friend. Robert Bell, CEO Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, U.K. 🇬🇧
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 🇺🇸