Number HA846
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Kerman
Size 268 x 174
Age 1850
This exceptional pictorial artwork dates from the first half of the 19th century. It is a staggering feat of Persian art: scenes of heroism and valor from Ferdowsiβs 1,000 year old epic poem πππππ£ππ’ππ brought to life in Persian painting in the style of the royal court of Fath Ali Shah Qajar (1797β1834) and then recreated by a Kermani master weaver.
The whole composition is one lengthy and entire story of the royal sport of princes and kings: πΎππ€πππ£. Or, as we know it nowadays, Polo. Dozens of royal princes and courtiers engage in this game on horseback in the great outdoors. They are mostly wearing Qajar royal robes as was common in court painting in FASβs reign. Apart from the Sassanid Shahanshah at the top right π
Itβs likely to be the oldest Polo carpet in history, adding to its significance. A lot of action unfolds in the borders: a very long band of calligraphy all around the main field recounts the exploits of Siavash. These are verses directly culled from the Shahnameh, very elegantly inwoven and inscribed in fine π£ππ¨π©ππ‘ππ¦ script.
The outer border is flabbergasting and exhilarating in different ways. A whole menagerie of wild and exotic animals maraud around the 4 edges. Itβs the first and only instance Iβve seen of a gorilla π¦ on an antique carpet.
So much more to add but thatβs already too much to digest. A historical masterpiece for all time. Unparalleled storytelling, unequalled beauty, unrivalled creativity and finesse. The braided fringes will tell you how finely woven this is, while the natural dyes speak for themselves. The oxidised browns and beiges indicate the almost 200 years that have passed!
AVAILABLE to museums & private collections, please email or DM.
To me personally there is no surprise, event or frankly anything that gets me more excited than the purchase of a treasured piece of understated artwork such as that of a proper vintage/antique carpet. The sourcing, grading and authentication of these pieces is no small task but is of the highest importance. Through the respected dealer Hadi Maktabi all that is guaranteed, and rest assured the one thing I can guarantee personally as a client is a first class service from the initial selection process till it gets delivered right to your door step. It was an undeniably special experience, with hundreds of carpets to choose from, will definitely be visiting again. Thank you dear Hadi. Habeeb Al Monawer, Kuwait π°πΌ
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 π¦πΊ
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 ππ°
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