Number 924
Material Wool
Origin Qashqai
Style Animal
Type Tribal
Size 120 x 95
Age 1889
This is a startling artifact and an unforgettable spin on the concept of a nomadic bag. It is part mafrash, part khorjin, composed of 5 elements. The central section is a flat kilim weave while the 4 outer ones are carpet knotted with pile; they fold up to close into the shape of a trunk or suitcase. The side sections are hexagonal and almost pointy at the top. The upper section is a short rectangle and the lower one a longer rectangle that folds around and buckles into the upper one. The leather belts and iron clasps are original to the piece. This seems to be the only such example known to scholars and is of high historical and artistic importance.
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. 🇬🇧
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
Hadi Maktabi and his staff provide comprehensive and thoughtful services to collectors and textile buyers worldwide. His knowledge of antique oriental rugs and textiles, including many fine offerings from the Levant, is unsurpassed. We have been loyal customers for over five years and have visited his Beirut premises. He has worked with us upon several occasions to select the exact Ottoman and Levantine pieces we wanted for our collection. You can be sure of quality and honesty when dealing with Hadi. Penelope and Timothy Hays, Just In From The East Collection, Florida 🇺🇸