Number 1714
Type Village
Material Wool
Style All Over
Origin Malayer
Size 720 x 360
Age 1318 Hijri (1899)
It is indeed a wonderful world when you stumble across such startling masterpieces of folk art and cultural resonance.
This is the largest Malayer I have ever seen. It is also the most ambitious ππ¨ππ‘ππ« & ππ‘π’π₯π or ππ«ππ π§ππ§π ππ¨πππ‘ carpet I have seen. The scale is gigantic really. A mighty Lion π¦ and Sun π element proudly stands at each corner of the field. This is the ancient ππ‘π’π« π¨ ππ‘π¨π«π¬π‘π’π, the emblem of Persian royalty and kingship. Which confirms this carpet was commissioned for a royal palace.
It survives in perfect condition and has a most attractive border of calligraphy in πππ¨π©ππ‘ππ¦ Persian poetry. In the lower border we read that the carpet was commissioned on the occasion of ππ’π ππ₯ ππ‘πππ’π«, a very important occasion for Shia Iranians. The upper border tells us this was in the Hijri year 1318 (1899 CE).
The photo is not in highest resolution given the sheer scale of dimensions. Please email or DM me for crisper full photos and detailed closeups.
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 π±π»
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
Acquiring a piece from my dear friend Hadi is truly a journey. We start that journey with a lesson and detailed background on any piece that is of interest. After a thorough discussion regarding the chosen piece or should I say marvel, since Hadi's pieces are truly marvels, Hadi guides us into why he would advise us to acquire it or go for another of his marvels that would suit us more than the one initially chosen. This sincere advice always makes us feel that we are generously taken care of by Hadi. The learning process and honesty in guidance make us go back only to Hadi whenever we are looking for our next beautiful piece for our homes. All I can say is thank you Hadi for your impeccable guidance and service. Abdullah Al-Awadhi, Kuwait π°πΌ