Number 168586
Material Wool
Style Medallion
Origin Afshar
Type Tribal
Size 109 x 96 each
Age 1870
Tremendously fine and gloriously well preserved, this pair of square antique tribal rugs are ceremonial seating mats known as ๐๐ฐ๐ฐ ๐๐ฐ๐ณ๐ด๐ช ie literally "on the platform". A ๐๐ฐ๐ณ๐ด๐ช is the elevated wooden platform on which guests of honor sit (now commonly used in riverside traditional restaurants). It was meant to recall the Shah's throne in the 18th/19th centuries.
The fact these were made as a pair indicates either a symmetrical arrangement for a tribal khan (chief) and his wife, or for the khan with a special guest. The fact they survive as a pair, intact and together, is nothing short of a miracle.
This extra fine pair boasts a very high knot count for a tribal rug, soft handspun mountainside wool, appealing natural dyes of a calm tonality, and a gripping design. A dazzler field of radiating diagonal rainbow rows surrounds each of the elegant medallions. The square size adds visual appeal. I particularly adore the chic end kilims.
Highly collectible and perfectly preserved.
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. ๐ฌ๐ง
โI practically furnished my entire home with carpets from Hadi. The process was not only a joy but it was also a learning experience for me. Hadi was super helpful in identifying the right pieces for my home that would both work with my taste, budget, sizes required and that would be a good investment for my family. Hadiโs collection is second to none, and his knowledge and service is truly the blessing on top.โ Amr Banaja, Public Investment Fund, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ๐ธ๐ฆ
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 ๐ฐ๐ผ