Number 659
Type Workshop
Material Silk
Style Prayer Rug
Origin Anatolian
Size 180 x 120
Age 1903
There simply doesn't exist any other comparable piece to this pure silk prayer rug. It is closest in spirit to Ottoman silk carpets but is not quite the same. The expression of the bichromatic mihrab is distinctly Maghrebi North African, as are the columns. The octagonal star bears a dedication to "His Excellency the Wali (Governor) of Sousse", an ancient city in Tunisia. At that time the country was a French protectorate which may explain the Gregorian date used on an Islamic prayer rug. A fascinating fusion. A museum piece par excellence.
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 🇱🇧
“You don’t just buy a rug from Dr Maktabi... It’s an experience, a rich one! You learn about history, culture & art. And more importantly you feel euphoric!” Dr Siamak Abolhassani, Expert Medical Care Clinics, Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺