Turkish Rugs

Turkish rugs are one of the oldest and most treasured art forms in the world.

Originating in Central Asia and Anatolia, a region of modern-day Turkey, these rugs were made from camel, goat, and sheep wool, bound with linen or cotton threads. Turkish rugs are known for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and high-quality materials. One of the features that distinguishes the rugs is a weaving technique unique to Turkish carpets known as the Ghiordes knot. Ghiordes knot is a double knot weaving technique that makes carpets more resilient and long-lasting.

Turkish carpets have a long history dating back to the Turks' nomadic beginnings in Central Asia. Rugs have a significant impact on their nomadic culture. They were originally crafted for use in tents or as wall hangings. The carpet was a transportable item that made the floor easier to walk on because they moved frequently and stayed in tents. The early Turkish rugs have geometric designs and natural images.

Rug weaving in Anatolia originated with the advent of Turkish tribes from Central Asia who settled here. The eighteen preserved pieces woven by the Seljuk Turks in the 13th century are among the earliest specimens known.

Today, the carpets produced in Anatolia's agricultural districts are descended from settlers or nomadic civilizations. The carpets' designs depict Anatolia and Central Asia. Because these patterns, motifs, and designs indicate a society's roots and culture, a rug might be called a cultural artifact. Each of the designs has a purpose and is not a random sketch.

The 16th century marked the start of Anatolian rug weaving for the Ottoman Empire. Rug weaving, which started with the Seljuks in Anatolia, was carried on by the Ottomans. Rugs from this era are known as "Classical Ottoman Rugs." Classical era Ottoman rugs have floral designs and royal symbols. Those carpets were named "Palace carpets," which comes from the fact that the pattern and colors were chosen by palace painters and then sent to weaving facilities. Originally, these rugs were solely made for the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire.

Along with Usak and Bergama, rug-weaving hubs during this era were Gördes, Kula, Milas, Ladik, Mucur, Kirsehir, Bandirma, and Canakkale. Rugs woven at Hereke achieved international prominence at the turn of the nineteenth and twentieth century. Today, the finest silk carpets in the world are still produced in Hereke.

The latest interior design trends with Turkish rugs are going monochromatic or neutral with the rest of your room to let your rug be the statement piece, and having vintage decorative elements to complement the look of your Turkish rug.

Looking for a very specific design? Send an email to shop@homeandrugs.com