The History Of Turkish Rugs
Turkish rug weaving began over 1,000 years ago when nomadic tribes brought their skills to Turkey. These early weavers created rugs for their daily lives - as floor coverings, blankets, and even tent walls. Over time, the Ottoman Empire recognized the beauty of these carpets and established royal workshops. These workshops in cities like Istanbul and Hereke created some of the finest rugs ever made, combining traditional techniques with sophisticated designs.
Different Styles from Different Regions
Turkey's varied landscape created many different rug styles. Each region developed its own look based on local traditions and materials available.
Oushak rugs from western Turkey are famous for their large, flowing patterns and soft, muted colors. These rugs often feature beautiful medallion designs that seem to float across the carpet. The wool used in Oushak rugs has a special quality that gives them a lovely, silky feel.
Hereke rugs represent the finest Turkish weaving. Made near Istanbul, these carpets can have over 1,000 knots per square inch. Many Hereke rugs use silk, creating incredibly detailed patterns that almost look like paintings.
Eastern Turkey produces Kars rugs with bold, geometric patterns and strong colors. These designs reflect the area's tribal heritage. Prayer rugs from various regions feature the mihrab (prayer arch) design that became a model for Islamic carpets worldwide.
How Turkish Rugs Are Made
Turkish weavers use a special knot called the Turkish or Ghiordes knot. This creates a thick, durable pile that lasts for generations. The knot also gives Turkish rugs their characteristic upright texture, different from other carpet styles.
Most Turkish rugs use wool from local sheep that graze in Turkey's highlands. This wool is naturally strong and develops a beautiful shine over time. The best Turkish rugs also use natural dyes made from plants, roots, and minerals. Red comes from madder root, blue from indigo plants, and yellow from saffron and other local plants.
Meanings Behind the Patterns
Turkish rug patterns aren't just decorative - they carry deep meaning. Many symbols come from ancient beliefs and daily life. The "evil eye" protects against bad luck. Tree patterns represent life and growth. Hands symbolize protection, while combs represent cleanliness and order.
Geometric patterns are especially common in Turkish rugs. These designs follow Islamic artistic traditions that value mathematical precision and balance. Stars, diamonds, and stepped patterns create rhythm across the rug's surface.
FAQ Section
What's special about Turkish rugs compared to other rugs?
Turkish rugs use a unique knotting method called the Turkish knot, which makes them extra durable and gives them a distinctive texture. They're known for brighter colors and bolder geometric patterns compared to Persian rugs. Turkish weavers also created the classic prayer rug design that influenced carpet making around the world. The wool quality is exceptional because Turkish sheep graze in highland areas, producing strong, lustrous fiber.
How can I tell if a Turkish rug is authentic?
Look for several key signs: check the back of the rug for symmetrical knots tied in rows, examine the colors for natural variations that show hand-dyeing, and look for slight pattern irregularities that prove hand-weaving. Real Turkish rugs have tightly wrapped edges and show beautiful color changes over time, especially browns that may look almost black with age. Authentic pieces feel substantial and have a natural wool smell.
What are Turkish Kilim rugs?
Kilims are flat-woven rugs without pile, made by nomadic tribes before they created knotted carpets. These versatile rugs served as floor coverings, room dividers, and storage bags for traveling families. Kilims are reversible since both sides look the same, and they feature bold geometric patterns with symbolic meanings. They're lighter and more flexible than pile rugs, making them perfect for layering or smaller spaces.
Why are some Turkish rugs so expensive?
The most valuable Turkish rugs, like Hereke carpets, require incredible skill and time to make. A single Hereke rug might take months or even years to complete because of their extremely fine knotting - sometimes over 1,000 knots per square inch. These rugs often use silk and feature complex patterns that look almost photographic. Antique Turkish rugs are also valuable because of their age, historical importance, and the natural aging of their dyes.
How do I take care of my Turkish rug?
Keep your Turkish rug away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Rotate it every few months so it wears evenly. Clean up spills right away by blotting (don't rub) with a clean cloth. Vacuum regularly but use a gentle setting. For deep cleaning, hire a professional who understands natural dyes - this should be done every 3-5 years. With proper care, the natural dyes in Turkish rugs actually get more beautiful with age.
Which Turkish rugs are most popular with collectors?
Collectors love 19th-century Oushak rugs for their elegant designs and sophisticated colors. Antique Hereke silk rugs are highly prized for their incredible craftsmanship. Old prayer rugs from different Turkish regions are valuable for their historical significance. Village rugs from places like Milas and Bergama attract collectors because they show authentic tribal traditions. Kilims from the Konya region are also popular for their bold patterns and good condition.