Number 11char
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Tree
Size 212 x 144
Age 1910
For a 100 years, bazar elders have spoken of the most exquisite Isfahan rugs of the Qajar era, referring to them by the mythical name of "Madar Vatan" which translates as "the mother of the nation". They all agree that this refers to a near mythical weaver whose carpets were so fine and exalted that they captured the very essence of the motherland. As a scholar I searched long and hard for evidence but none appeared. Then one day I bought this carpet for its beautiful blue tones and majestic flowering vase design. The inscription is in mirror writing, so upon inspecting its back I was amazed to read: "MADAR VATAN SAMAD ZADEH". So the legend was real and she existed! The last two words mean "child of Samad". Further research showed that she was the daughter of the world famous master weaver Abdol Samad, whose similarly executed landscape scenes are found on this website and in the Carpet Museum of Iran.
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 practically furnished my entire home with carpets from Hadi. The process was not only a joy but it was also a learning experience for me. Hadi was super helpful in identifying the right pieces for my home that would both work with my taste, budget, sizes required and that would be a good investment for my family. Hadi’s collection is second to none, and his knowledge and service is truly the blessing on top.” Amr Banaja, Public Investment Fund, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦