Number 1101
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Tree
Size 203 x 137
Age 1890
This masterpiece belongs to a select group of 4 known Cypress tree rugs woven by one of the preeminent masters of carpet weaving in Isfahan in the late 19th century. Grand Master Abdolsamad, like Agha Ahmad known by his first name, accomplished a terrific mastery in the art of rendering the tree of life, namely by the remarkable form of the slender cypress and its multitude leaves, each depicted individually. His signature appears above the tip of the mihrab prayer niche. Below the tree if you look closely you can make out two iterations of the phrase "Ya Ali", thereby granting the carpet additional mystical Sufi levels of meaning. A very similar carpet signed by Abdolsamad lies in the Carpet Museum of Iran, formerly in the royal collections. It appeared on the cover of the museum's inauguration catalog. At present this is the only example of Abdolsamad's oeuvre that is available on the market. A historical masterpiece that will augment in value with time.
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 🇱🇻
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 🇭🇰
The idea of purchasing valuable rugs and other artwork online from an overseas seller is daunting for several reasons, not least of which is the fact that, not being able to examine and feel the rug for yourself, you are never entirely certain that the origin, age or condition of the rug corresponds with the dealer’s description. For me, I could never take this step unless I had absolute trust in the integrity of the dealer, and my recent experience with Hadi confirms that my faith in him was well placed. Every detail of the antique rug expertly explained by Hadi was accurate and when I finally received the actual rug, it turned out to be even more stunning than his photos depicted. F. Alsagoff, Singapore
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