Vintage Turkish Rugs for Sale
Rugs and weaving have been a central point of life for millennia in certain cultures around the globe. And a vintage Turkish rug, whether used as an accent or focal point in a room, can evoke a feeling of history and tradition while adding an element of exotic beauty. From the polished and royal Authentic Oushak collection to the tribal Caucasus Kula rug, each of our vintage Turkish rugs for sale offer distinctive highlights that elevate a design.
Unlike Persian or Indian rugs, which have long been a staple for designers and consumers looking to add a rich layer of textural interest, Turkish rugs are often more bold in color and texture, yet just as intricately realized in design. This fusion of boldness and complexity, makes Turkish rugs one of the most versatile flooring choices available.
The antique Turkish rugs that we know today owe their heritage to the Seljuk Turks of the thirteenth century and the subsequent Ottoman empire, which ruled over an expansive area that straddled Europe and Asia. The antique carpets that were produced during this time were the first wave of Oriental rugs to arrive in Western Europe, where they were prized commodities and prominently featured in the paintings of the most famous artists of the day.
These early Turkish carpets were made at nomadic, village, and city levels of weaving. As such, their designs are more primitive than those of later rug styles and may feature a variety of geometric shapes like hexagons, squares, or rhomboids, or even more elaborate borders featuring Kufic-like motifs. The Ottoman era saw a number of important developments in rug production including the creation of niched prayer rugs.
After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, rug production in Turkey continued with a variety of regional styles that were influenced by the traditions of the indigenous peoples of Anatolia and its many invaders over the centuries. These include the Armenians, Kurds, and other ethnic groups who all brought their distinct art forms to the Turkish rug weaving scene. The result is a diverse array of regional styles that range from the legendary Oushak rug, to the fluid Safavid-style arabesques and angular botanical motifs found in Hereke rugs.
Vintage and overdyed Turkish rugs, as with all antique and vintage rugs and kilims, must be carefully cleaned to restore their integrity. The process of over-dying is usually carried out on rugs that are already worn or faded, but the results are beautiful and offer a unique look that can be used to tie a room together. Buying a vintage rug that has been overdyed is an excellent way to support traditional craft and sustainable practices while also giving your space a contemporary twist. When purchasing a vintage overdyed Turkish rug, make sure to read the label and ensure that the rug has been cleaned and treated professionally. It’s also a great idea to consult a professional rug appraiser before making a purchase, to help you determine the value of your rug.