Mailov brothers
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Oil industry, Caviar production |
| Founder | Daniel Mailyan, Ivan (Hovhannes) Mailyan, Lazarus (Yeghia) Mailyan |
| Fate | Relocated to France after the Russian Revolution |
| Headquarters | Baku (historical) , Russian Empire (historical) |
Area served | Russia, Armenia |
| Products | Oil, caviar |
The Mailyan brothers (also known as Mailoff) () were prominent Armenian entrepreneurs, oil industry leaders, and benefactors. They significantly influenced the petroleum sector and were pioneers in establishing caviar production within Russia. Their investments extended to cultural initiatives in Baku, including patronage of the Mailov Theatre (currently the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater), as well as various enterprises in Armenia.
Overview
Comprising Daniel, Ivan (Hovhannes), and Lazarus (Yeghia), the Mailyan siblings were industrialists who accumulated considerable fortune through oil ventures. They launched the inaugural caviar manufacturing enterprise in Russia, earning them the title "Kings of fish roe." Following the upheaval of the Russian Revolution, the family relocated to France.
Mailyan theatre
According to tradition, a celebrated opera soprano—either Antonina Nezhdanova or an Italian vocalist—declined to return to Baku due to the absence of a dedicated opera venue. Valuing her artistry, Daniel Mailov pledged to build an opera house on the condition that she would come back.
The theatre was financed by the Mailyan brothers and crafted by Armenian architect Nikolai Bayev. Azeri oil magnate Zeynalabdin Taghiyev issued a challenge for its completion within one year, promising to underwrite expenses if they succeeded. The construction concluded in 10 months, and Taghiev fulfilled his promise.
Inaugurated in 1911 as the Mailyan Theatre, it presently operates as the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, continuing to serve the people of Baku.
Philanthropy in Armenia
In February 1919, the Mailyan brothers contributed a substantial grant of 2 million rubles to support an expedition aimed at assessing industrial capabilities, mineral wealth, and soil conditions critical for rebuilding efforts in the First Republic of Armenia.