Number 1161
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Origin Tabriz
Style Animal
Size 370 x 243
Age 1920
I love this menagerie of exotic animals and fantastic beasts. In essence it is an early variant of the Zirkhaki school of 'archaeological' carpets woven in Tabriz in the late Qajar and early Pahlavi years when a craze of Persia's pre-Islamic past took hold. Numerous European expeditions were busy digging up artifacts and objects and this lit up a fascination amongst wealthy locals that ultimately ended with the establishment of the National Museum of Iran in 1937 under the leadership of Andre Godard and the watchful eye of Reza Shah. However, another undercurrent is at play here as hundreds of beasts are scattered throughout the field and recall mythological tales associated with the Vaqvaq tree. The more you look the more magic you will find here!
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 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 🇦🇺
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