Number AH43
Type Village
Material Wool
Style Flowery
Origin Malayer
Size 115 x 191
Age 1870
An extremely attractive and finely woven carpet, yet a very peculiar and puzzling one indeed. In spirit it is quite related to French Aubusson needlework and is a great example of the period of Qajar infatuation with the court arts of the French Second Empire during the reign of Napoleon III (1851-71), known as 𝙇'𝙀𝙢𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝘿𝙚𝙨 𝙍𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙨. The rich theme of roses and flowering bouquets, an early and unique interpretation of the 𝙂𝙤𝙡 𝙁𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙜 theme, is not presented in the typical Persian manner but with a more European sensibility. The border suggests a wooden frame. The indigo is fascinatingly saturated and approximates pitch black, acting as a powerful negative space among the floral elements. In terms of weave, it is super fine and suggests a Bakhtiari Khan workshop whereas the dyes hint at Malayer. All in all, a unique and collectible artwork.
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
J’ai fait la connaissance de Hadi lors de la préparation de l’exposition « L’Empire des roses, chefs-d’œuvre de l’art persan du 19ème siècle » qui a eu lieu au Louvre-Lens en 2018 et à laquelle il a participé par le prêt de tapis exceptionnels. J’avais alors été impressionnée par ses connaissances et sa passion pour les tapis orientaux. Cette rencontre a marqué le début d’une collaboration riche et fructueuse. Elle a notamment permis au musée du quai Branly-Jacques Chirac de voir ses collections iraniennes s’enrichir de plusieurs tapis et tentures dont certains n’ont pas leur équivalent dans les musées occidentaux. Ce que j’apprécie chez Hadi ? C’est son professionnalisme, son dynamisme et l’engouement qu’il a pour son métier ! Hana Chidiac, Curator of the Middle East Department at the Musee Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, Paris, France 🇫🇷
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 🇱🇻