Number 1101
Type Workshop
Origin Isfahan
Material Wool
Style Tree
Size 203 x 137
Age 1890
This masterpiece belongs to a select group of 4 known Cypress tree rugs woven by one of the preeminent masters of carpet weaving in Isfahan in the late 19th century. Grand Master Abdolsamad, like Agha Ahmad known by his first name, accomplished a terrific mastery in the art of rendering the tree of life, namely by the remarkable form of the slender cypress and its multitude leaves, each depicted individually. His signature appears above the tip of the mihrab prayer niche. Below the tree if you look closely you can make out two iterations of the phrase "Ya Ali", thereby granting the carpet additional mystical Sufi levels of meaning. A very similar carpet signed by Abdolsamad lies in the Carpet Museum of Iran, formerly in the royal collections. It appeared on the cover of the museum's inauguration catalog. At present this is the only example of Abdolsamad's oeuvre that is available on the market. A historical masterpiece that will augment in value with time.
I have been buying and collecting oriental rugs for over 40 years. As a result I have had direct experiences with many dealers and galleries throughout Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia. The Hadi Maktabi establishment is distinct and unique. It is rare to find a dealer who not only has a discerning taste and excellent choice of rugs. But with Hadi, the experience is one of an erudite oriental rug scholar paired with years of family experiences and traditions dealing in rugs, carpets and textiles. The available choices, diversity and quality of his stock is awesome. It is always a pleasure. Highly recommended and satisfying. As a collector he has become not only a partner of choice, knowledge and information but also a valued friend. Robert Bell, CEO Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, U.K. 🇬🇧
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 🇱🇧
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
Email List
Request Offer