Number 570
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Qashqai
Type Tribal
Size 236 x 141
Age 1331 or 1912
This is one of a very small number of Qashqai rugs from the Qajar period with a design inspired by the bas-relief rock carvings from the ancient Achaemenid capital of Persepolis. The Kashkuli clan of the Qashqai confederation would winter in the water rich area around ruins and gradually started welcoming intrepid European travelers, adventurers and archaeologists. The huge rock with the ancient Persian Emperor caught their fancy as the ultimate symbol of majesty and power. Et voila, our masterpiece was born!
Two rows of courtiers in small size ultimately bear the legendary King of Kings Xerxes, who is enthroned at the middle with a servant fanning him from behind. The Shahanshah of the world's then largest ever global empire receives benediction and blessing in the shape of the πππ§ππ«ππππ§, the Zoroastrian symbol of the god Ahura Mazda who appears at the top of the field with outstretched multicolored wings.
And now for something completely different. We pause for a minute and study the innermost border where we see traditional Qashqai geometric motifs, the date 1331... and chicken π
How can one not fall in love with that?
βYou donβt just buy a rug from Dr Maktabi... Itβs an experience, a rich one! You learn about history, culture & art. And more importantly you feel euphoric!β Dr Siamak Abolhassani, Expert Medical Care Clinics, Victoria, Australia π¦πΊ
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»
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
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