Number 177
Type Village
Material Wool
Style Prayer Rug
Origin Malayer
Size 194 x 136
Age 1870
Finely woven with exquisite natural dyes, this is a rare prayer rug from the beautiful old city of Malayer where niche or mihrab carpets were not usually made. Theslender vase, woven with undyed ivory wool, and the turquoise blue bowl on which it sits capture the gaze and entice the viewer. The millefleurs style flowers that rise up to the arch are elegantly executed. A pair of architectural columns support the mihrab on the sides; they are quietly presented leaving narrow negative spaces of midnight blue tucked in by the border.
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 🇱🇻
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
You can't only be a customer of Hadi Maktabi. While his main purpose is rug dealing, he starts with story telling and ends with history selling. That's what I call high-end art curating and closing it all with an entertaining friendship. George El Hani, CEO Levica, Lebanon 🇱🇧