Vintage Turkish Rugs

When it comes to rugs that bring elegance and sophistication to any space, Turkish styles have been revered since the 13th Century. Glowing with exotic beauty and fascinating motifs, these timeless works of art are beloved by rug and antique collectors everywhere. Whether in the form of a kilim, flatwoven and pileless, or a Turkish carpet, their intricate details, rich palettes and robust construction are sure to add a touch of class to your home.

vintage turkish rugs are woven using natural wool and cotton, making them durable and easy to maintain. With their intricate designs, these rugs are more than just a functional flooring piece, they are beautiful works of art that tell a story that is unique to the weaver. Many turkish rugs were used as dowry by women and passed down through generations, so they carry a special significance that transcends mere aesthetics.

The history of Turkish rugs is a long and complex one. It started when Seljuk Sultan Alp Arslan defeated the Roman Emperor in 1071 AD, marking the beginning of Turkish rule in Anatolia. Throughout the centuries, Turkish dynasties rose and fell, but the weaving of rugs continued with the arrival of various ethnic groups who brought their own traditional styles to the region. These cultural influences, combined with the dominant Islamic style, gave rise to a number of unique types of Turkish rugs.

From the renowned Hereke designs of the late 16th century to the more primitive patterns found in early Turkish rugs, there are a wide variety of shapes and sizes to choose from. These rugs are so beloved that they have even been featured in paintings by famous European artists like Hans Holbein.

Today, antique turkish rugs are still prized for their exquisite oxidized colors and posh pastels. Whether in the form of a small area rug or a large statement piece, these rugs are ideal for any space in need of a little luxury and timeless elegance.

There are a few different styles of Turkish rugs to choose from, ranging from kilims to Turkish area rugs, all made using hand-knotting techniques. Kilims are pileless and often feature geometric patterns and vibrant colors, while Turkish rugs come in an array of sizes to fit any space. They range from small kilim rugs Charlotte NC to runners, which are long and rectangular in shape, to room-size Turkish carpets.

The most popular type of Turkish rug is the Oushak, a decorative room-sized rug that’s known for its soft pastel coloration and intricate floral designs. Other styles include Bergama rugs with their bold, geometric medallion designs and Turkish Mudjur rugs that feature austere fields of madder red or fields that showcase blossoming “tree-of-life” or lantern motifs. These rugs are often used as prayer rugs and, in this way, serve a purpose beyond their aesthetic beauty. Some rugs are also re-dyed after discoloration to bring out their original color or highlight certain aspects of the design.