Number 358
Origin Shahsavan
Material Wool
Style Geometric
Type Kilim
Size 543 x 196
Age 1850
I still remember my excitement when I found this kilim many years ago and my long process to acquire it. An octogenarian fellow in the Tabriz bazar had it in his personal possession, a family heirloom from his great grandfather who had been a Khan of the noble Shahsavan tribe in the mid 19th century. Their clan lived in the lush areas around Hashtrūd and this kilim spent over a century and a half neatly folded in a wooden chest. Woven in two strips on account of the tremendous size, the kilim boasts some remarkable natural dyes. The size is ginormous and related to ceremonial events. It would be brought out and unfurled perhaps once or twice a year on important occasions like Nowrūz or a family feast. I am proud to have it in my collection now, a piece of history in its own right.
“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 🇦🇺
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
Hadi Maktabi and his staff provide comprehensive and thoughtful services to collectors and textile buyers worldwide. His knowledge of antique oriental rugs and textiles, including many fine offerings from the Levant, is unsurpassed. We have been loyal customers for over five years and have visited his Beirut premises. He has worked with us upon several occasions to select the exact Ottoman and Levantine pieces we wanted for our collection. You can be sure of quality and honesty when dealing with Hadi. Penelope and Timothy Hays, Just In From The East Collection, Florida 🇺🇸