Number 1451
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Bakhtiari
Type Tribal
Size 157 x 104
Age 1960
This eclectic tribal Bakhtiari is unique and frankly remarkable. It depicts the saintly Imam Ali in front of a mosque but the setting seems based on medieval European & 19th century Orientalist paintings. The posture and expressions of the Imam Ali recall depictions of Christ, especially with the outstretched arms. The companion depicted to the right seems to be European in essence as well. A powerful expression of cultural fusion, in part explained by the presence of a sizable Armenian community amongst the Bakhtiari villages in Chahar Mahal province.
“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 🇸🇦
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 🇦🇺