Number 1749
Material Wool
Style All Over
Type Tribal
Origin Kurdish
Size 160 x 115
Age 1825
One of my favorite rug types of all time, they featured heavily with a thorough historical discussion in my book ππ‘π πππ«π¬π’ππ§ πππ«π©ππ: ππ‘π π
π¨π«π π¨ππππ§ ππππ«π¬ ππππ-ππππ.
Carpet connoisseurs and art historians are aware that these historical carpets invariably come in large πππ‘π‘ππ sizes. This is the only πππ§π€π£ππ’ format piece I have had, with harmoniously proportioned size in small scale. By scale I refer to the size of the rug and not the scale of the drawing which retains its grandiose proportions and scale. One could even claim this could even be a πππππ§ππ sampler.. with the 2 full (complete) units of repeat.
The hero of the story, as ever with Sauj Bulagh rugs, is the incredible and formidable palette of natural dyes. Kurdish master dyers created an unbelievable yellow (border), a startling pink (field roses), a dramatic heavy metal blue and a mature green.
The sparkling colors in the field are all set against a nutty brown field that has oxidized here and there due to the walnut husk dye. This creates a lovely 3D effect with the ground seemingly carved out and the flowers and foliage in glorious full pile.
The handle of the weave and the touch of the wool are truly delightful. This is quite a catch.
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 π°πΌ
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 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. π¬π§