Although Turkish rugs may be considered second to Persian rugs in historical value, they don’t take a back seat — or a back room — as among the very finest rugs in the world.
The beautiful Turkish rug has been one of the most sought-after floor coverings since the 13th Century. Often referred to as Anatolian rugs, they are handwoven and hand-knotted by skilled artisans using the natural and very durable fibers of wool and silk. All Turkish rugs reflect the rich cultural heritage of different regions within Turkey, so each area creates a unique style, design, pattern and color — and historical significance.
A Turkish rug is one of one.
Because of the unique weaving techniques used to create an antique Turkish rug, each stands in a class of its own. The arduous crafting of each Turkish rug can take anywhere from months to years to complete.
Here at Doris Leslie Blau, we can point out the subtle differences among Turkish and other rugs. Turkish rugs, for example, are woven with Ghiordes knots, symmetrical with both ends of the yarn pulled up between two warps (the vertical strands of the rug foundation) and the knot collar wrapping around two warps. As a result, these antique Turkish rugs may feature more than 300 knots per square inch. When you visit our gallery, we’ll further explain!
As mentioned, Turkish rugs differ by color, design, motif and pattern based on the region and the local weaving process. In fact, even the knotting techniques vary depending on the village or city of origin in Turkey and the local tradition or cultural heritage they reflect. We have encountered rugs from the Turkish regions of Oushak, Borlou, Ghiodes, Hereke, Sivas and Tulu.
Please, choose your pleasure.
Oushak Rugs are a vital subcategory of Turkish rugs. Since the 16th century, they have been considered by many as esteemed objects d’art. These antique and oriental carpets and rugs (also known as Usak or Ushak) originated in Anatolia, just south of where Istanbul is today in Turkey. Oushak rugs are usually hand-knotted with silky, soft and luminous wool, differentiated by ovoid or star-shaped medallions enlivened by brick red, terracotta, deep blue and gold royal tones. Oushak rugs are richly distinctive. Charming is the descriptor we most often hear.
Many designers and collectors favor large Oushak rugs because of their oversized knots, luster and emphasis on open design elements. At Doris Leslie Blau, we feature many over size Oushak rugs and carpets because they elevate space and help transform any large room into a decorative masterpiece. It is an antique floor covering crafted to make a rich and defining statement.
Vintage Turkish rugs often originate from Kayseri, a rug production company in Anatolia in Central Turkey. Anatolia has been the core of textile manufacturing in Turkey for centuries, with weaving regions in Konya, Nigde and Sivas. Kayseri rugs are distinguished by their fine weave of a woolen pile on a cotton foundation. Most Kayseri rugs feature natural dyes such as walnut brown and saffron yellow, making them more vivid and eco-friendly. Kayseri rugs often imitate as many as 200 floral patterns from Turkish rugs in nearby Hereke, Kim-Kapi Urgup, Avanos or Incesu.
Large Turkish rugs radiate warmth across ample interior space. The lush elegant colors and elaborate patterns of these larger rugs often tempt collectors, so their popularity never falters. At Doris Leslie Blau, we conduct extended conversations with clients about the quality, workmanship and historical significance of these large Turkish rugs before they often travel long distances to collect them.
Visit us soon
We invite you to peruse the amazing collection of Turkish rugs at Doris Leslie Blau. You’ll experience why these antique rugs are especially prized for their rarity, rich history and cultural significance. Every Turkish rug tells a unique story through its awe-inspiring design, making each piece highly valued as a work of art.
An Exceptional Collection of Antique Turkish Rugs for Sale
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