Number 1587
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Qashqai
Type Kilim
Size 205 x 132
Age 1935
This remarkable Qashqai kilim is both extremely fine and historically revealing. The uniqueness of design and theme make it a very singular and important artwork with significant cultural echoes.
We see two pairs of women, apparently startled judging by the raised fingers to their mouths--this mannerism features prominently in medieval Persian painting and signifies surprise. What is more noticeable is that they are not veiled and in full makeup. This ties in to Reza Shah's famous 1930s law in which he "unveiled" the women of Iran, at times forcing women in public space in the capital to remove their head coverings. This makes this fine and colorful kilim a very valuable piece.
To me personally there is no surprise, event or frankly anything that gets me more excited than the purchase of a treasured piece of understated artwork such as that of a proper vintage/antique carpet. The sourcing, grading and authentication of these pieces is no small task but is of the highest importance. Through the respected dealer Hadi Maktabi all that is guaranteed, and rest assured the one thing I can guarantee personally as a client is a first class service from the initial selection process till it gets delivered right to your door step. It was an undeniably special experience, with hundreds of carpets to choose from, will definitely be visiting again. Thank you dear Hadi. Habeeb Al Monawer, Kuwait 🇰🇼
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 🇱🇧
As a carpet collector of 30 years, I have noticed a decline in the amount of truly unique and high quality carpets on the market. I have also noted a decline in the knowledge of merchants, generally. Hadi Maktabi stands against this trend as a both a curator for and an educator of his clients. His offerings are well-researched, museum quality carpets that are both singular and expertly chosen. In dealing with Hadi, I have experienced excellent communication, a high standard of service and extremely pleasant interactions. Warren D., Hong Kong 🇭🇰