Number 2021
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style All Over
Origin Farahan
Size 70 x 267
Age 1224 or 1324
This is a remarkable artwork, a wonder that it has survived. The facts that are evident are:
It was woven in Farahan, an example of that very soft and refined weave associated with the highest echelons of Qajar society.
It is uniquely trapezoidal in shape, unlike the familiar format of horse and most animal covers.
It is huge and impressive in scale and proportion, suggesting it was intended as a ceremonial cover for either an elephant or a camel.
There is a wonderful visual dichotomy between the minuscule vase at the base and the dense, overgrown millefleurs ornamentation.
The existence of an elaborate dedication at the top adds further weight to this historical artifact having distinguished royal provenance. The signature cartouche says:
فرمايش حضرت اجل اصغر السلطنه
"Farmayesh hazret-e ajal Asghar Al Saltaneh"
By high order of His Exalted Excellency Asghar Al Saltaneh
If this refers to the famous Qajar politician Mirza Ali Asghar Khan Amin al-Soltan, who served as Sadr A'zam (Prime Minister) under both Nasser al-Din Shah and Mozaffar al-Din Shah Qajar, then the inscribed date reads 1324 (1906-7).
Otherwise if a different figure was behind this lavish commission then the dating would be 1224 (1809-10) and the owner would have been a noble or prince at the court of Fath Ali Shah Qajar. The archaic nature of this museum worthy artwork supports that. The primary suspect here would be Asef Al Dowleh, Prime Minister to FASQ.
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 🇰🇼
The idea of purchasing valuable rugs and other artwork online from an overseas seller is daunting for several reasons, not least of which is the fact that, not being able to examine and feel the rug for yourself, you are never entirely certain that the origin, age or condition of the rug corresponds with the dealer’s description. For me, I could never take this step unless I had absolute trust in the integrity of the dealer, and my recent experience with Hadi confirms that my faith in him was well placed. Every detail of the antique rug expertly explained by Hadi was accurate and when I finally received the actual rug, it turned out to be even more stunning than his photos depicted. F. Alsagoff, Singapore