Number 1961
Type Workshop
Material Wool
Style Pictorial
Origin Kashan
Size 203 x 137
Age 1870
This carpet is woven from exactly the same cartoon as a pure silk rug signed by the elusive master weaver Molla Mohammad Hasan Mohtasham, currently in a private German collection. This leads us to conclude, given its remarkable finesse and above all the stunning 🤩 softness of the Kork wool, that this masterpiece was woven in the Mohtasham workshop. It is not a 'school of Mohtasham' weave but the real deal 👌
Depicted we see Nader Shah Afshar enthroned and giving audience. A cartouche above his head states his name and informs us that the carpet was commissioned by a certain Hajji Mirza, in itself another clue that this was an order from the famous master himself.
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 🇰🇼
“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 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 🇱🇻