Number pon32
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Tree
Size 213 x 163
Age 1128
Define a museum piece. This is one of only 4 known Safavid Garden Carpets topped with a mihrab niche making them prayer rugs in turn. Two have been published in 20th century literature but their whereabouts are unknown. The fourth is in the collection of the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad. Quite a pedigree. The carpet has an uncommon earthy toned complexion and its field is divided into four roughly equal areas by two bisecting channels of water running perpendicularly and meeting at a basin. Fish swim through the water while an assortment of peacocks, hoopoes and lovebirds perch on the trees. The influence of Safavid miniature painting, namely the Isfahan school associated with Shah Abbas II and Shah Sulayman is evident. It is dated 1128 equivalent to 1716, thereby making this the last dated Safavid carpet we know of. And the only yellow one.
“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 🇦🇺
“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 🇸🇦
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 🇱🇻