History and Home Decorating With Turkish Area Rugs

The Rich History Of Turkish Area Rugs And How They Make For Magnificent Interiors

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So what are Turkish rugs?

Turkish area rugs or Anatolian rugs, are floor coverings that were created in what is the modern day country of Turkey. Many of the beautiful area rugs from Turley were woven using traditional techniques that have been practiced for centuries, and they hold a significant place in Turkish culture and history.

What materials were used to weave rugs in Turkey?

Depending on the exact weaving location, you can find Turkish rugs that were made from wool, silk, or a combination of both silk and wool. Wool is the most commonly used rug weaving material and is known for its durability and resilience. Silk rugs, on the other hand, are more high end and luxurious looking carpets and are prized for their softness and lustrous appearance.

What are some of the more famous types of Turkish rugs?

Some of the well-known Turkish rug types include:

• Kilims: Kilims are flat-woven area rugs with no pile. These flatwoven tribal area rugs tend to feature geometric rug designs and are made by interweaving the weft and warp threads, resulting in pileless lightweight area rugs. Kilims often feature bold geometric patterns and vibrant colors.
• Oushak Rugs: Oushak rugs, originating from the city of Oushak in western Turkey, they are known for their soft color palettes and large-scale floral or geometric patterns. They typically have a thick pile and a luxurious feel. Many interior designers consider the area rugs from Oushak their go-to rug for their home decorating projects.
• Hereke Rugs: Turkish Hereke rugs are highly esteemed and are known for their intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship. These area rug styles are often made with much finer quality rug weaves which allows them to weave fine details, including floral motifs and intricate borders.
• Sivas Rugs: Turkish Sivas rugs, from the Sivas region in central Turkey, are also known for their finer weaves and intricate patterns. They are often woven with high-quality wool and have tend to have softer colorations.
• Konya Rugs: Turkish Konya rugs, especially and specifically the Konya Islamic prayer design area rugs, are prayer mats featuring intricate geometric patterns and arch motifs. They tend to feature a wider range of rustic rug colors and are highly regarded for their religious significance and as magnificent examples of Islamic art.

These are just a few examples of the diverse types of area rugs from of Turkey. The antique rugs from Turkey are treasured for their beauty, craftsmanship and cultural significance. Many of the better examples are becoming quite rare and as a result, have become quite the sought after rugs by collectors, home decorators and rug enthusiasts worldwide.

You may also want to review: Turkish Ghiordes rugs | Turkish Smyrna rugs | Turkish Karapinar rugs | Turkish Kayseri rugs | Turkish Milas / Melas rugs | Ottoman textiles and rugs |

What makes Turkish rugs special?

The Turkish area rugs are highly regarded and valued for several reasons.

Here are some factors that make Turkish rugs special:

• Rich History and Cultural Significance: Turkish rugs have a long and illustrious oriental rug history dating back thousands of years. They are deeply intertwined with Turkish culture and are considered a significant art form. The craft of weaving rugs has been passed down through generations, and the rugs often carry cultural motifs and symbols that reflect Turkey’s diverse heritage.
• Unique Designs and Patterns: Turkish rugs are renowned for their exquisite rug designs and beautiful patterns. Each region in Turkey has its own distinct style, resulting in a facinating variety of designs, area rug motifs and patterns as well as wide range of color schemes. Popular patterns include geometric shapes, floral motifs, medallions and intricate borders. The designs often reflect the local traditions, stories, and symbols, making each rug a unique piece of art.
• Superior Craftsmanship: Turkish rugs are meticulously handcrafted using traditional methods. Skilled artisans carefully making each rug by hand, paying close attention to detail. The rugs are made using the best high-quality materials, typically including wool, silk or a combination of both. The craftsmanship involved in creating these rugs is a testament to the skill and expertise of Turkish weavers.
• Durability and Longevity: Turkish rugs are known for their exceptional durability. The use of high-quality materials and the meticulous weaving technique ensures that these durable rugs can withstand heavy foot traffic and last for generations. With proper care, the better and rarer examples of Turkish rugs can maintain their beauty and quality for many years, making the rugs a worthwhile investment.
• Natural Dyes: Traditional Turkish rugs often feature natural vegetable carpet dyes derived from plants, roots, insects, and other natural sources. These dyes produce rich, vibrant colors that age gracefully over time. The use of natural dyes adds depth and character to the rugs, enhancing their overall beauty and uniqueness.
• Cultural Heritage and Value: Turkish rugs are not “just” decorative rugs or utilitarian items; they are cherished cultural artifacts. The best examples hold significant historical value and are often considered heirlooms that are passed down through families. Many Turkish rugs are also sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, contributing to their desirability and value.

Overall, the combination of rich history, unique designs, superior craftsmanship, durability, and cultural significance makes Turkish rugs special. They are not only functional floor coverings but also works of art that embody the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of Turkey.

Are Turkish rugs worth money?

In some cases, Turkish rugs can be quite expensive and some rugs can be worth a truly significant amount of money. The value of rugs depends on various factors, including its age, condition, rarity, rug size, design complexity, quality of materials and many other factors.

Antique Turkish rugs, particularly those that are well-preserved and exhibit exceptional craftsmanship, can command high prices in the market. Old rugs area worth money because they often hold historical and cultural significance, making them valuable to collectors and enthusiasts.

The intricacy and uniqueness of the rug’s design can also impact its value. Turkish rugs with intricate patterns, elaborate motifs, and beautiful use of rug colors tend to be more sought after and can fetch higher prices.

Additionally, the quality of materials used in the rug’s construction plays a role in determining its value. Rugs that were made from high-quality wool – such as the famed Angora rugs, silk, or a combination of both tend to be more valuable due to their durability, luxurious feel, and ability to retain their beauty over time.

You should also keep in mind that the value of all the Turkish area rugs can be somewhat subjective. A wide range of factors such as market demand and individual preferences can also impact its worth. If you have a Turkish rug that you believe may be valuable, it’s recommended to consult with a reputable rug appraiser or a rug expert who would be able to assess its specific characteristics and provide an accurate valuation.

You may also click here to submit information and images directly to us: Sell Your Rugs

What do Turkish rugs look like?

Turkish rugs don’t have a specific look and their designs and patterns vary tremendously. The most significant impact of the look of the rugs from Turkey will depend on the specific weaving location. Each region in Turkey has its own distinct style, motifs, and color schemes. This results in a wide range and rich variety of unique rug designs and patterns.

Are Turkish rugs really hand made?

While the antique and vintage rugs from Turkey were all crafted by hand, in recent years Turkey has become a leading producer of modern machine made area rugs.

How To Decorate Your Home With Turkish Area Rugs?

Decorating your home with Turkish area rugs can add a touch of elegance, warmth, and cultural charm to your space.

Here are some tips on how to effectively incorporate Turkish rugs into your home decor:

• Choose the Right Size and Placement: Consider the size of the room and the specific area where you want to place the rug. Turkish rugs come in various sizes, from small accent rugs to room-sized carpets and up to palatial oversized rugs. Select a rug that fits the scale of the room and complements the furniture arrangement. In living rooms, a common placement is to have the front legs of sofas and chairs sitting on the rug, while in dining rooms, ensure the rug accommodates the dining table and chairs comfortably.
• Mix and Match Patterns and Colors: Turkish rugs often feature vibrant colors and intricate patterns. When decorating with Turkish rugs, you can either choose rugs that complement the existing color scheme and patterns in the room or use the rugs to add color and as a focal point to introduce new colors and patterns. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different patterns and textures, but ensure they harmonize well together.
• Layering: Layering rugs on top of other area rugs or carpeting can create visual interest and add depth to your space. You can place a smaller Turkish rug on top of a larger, neutral rug or layer multiple rugs of different sizes and patterns for a bohemian or eclectic interior design look. Experiment with different combinations to achieve the desired effect.
• Balance with Other Decor Elements: Ensure a balanced visual composition by considering the overall decor style and the existing elements in the room. Turkish rugs can work well with various interior design styles, including bohemian, eclectic, traditional, and contemporary. Coordinate the colors and textures of other furniture, curtains, and decorative accessories to create a cohesive look.
• Highlight the Rug: Turkish rugs are beautiful works of art, so allow them to be the focal point of the room. When placing your area rugs in the room, arrange the furniture in a way that showcases the rug’s design and craftsmanship. Choose simpler furniture pieces and decor items that don’t overpower the rug but instead complement and enhance its beauty.
• Care and Maintenance: Proper rug care and maintenance are essential to preserve the beauty and longevity of your Turkish rugs. Regularly vacuum the rug to remove dirt and debris. Rotate the rug periodically to even out wear and sun exposure. If necessary, consider professional cleaning or restoration to keep the rug in optimal condition.

Remember, decorating with Turkish rugs allows you to infuse your home with a unique cultural element. Have fun exploring different placement options and styles that suit your taste and create a welcoming and visually captivating atmosphere in your space.

Are Turkish rugs in style now?

Yes, Turkish rugs, especially the antique ones are still very much in style and continue to be one of the popular types of rugs in interior design and home decor. Their timeless appeal, exquisite craftsmanship, and unique designs make them a sought-after choice for adding warmth, character, and a touch of cultural heritage to various spaces.

Here are a few reasons why Turkish area rugs remain in style:

• Cultural Appreciation: Turkish rugs have a rich history and are valued for their cultural significance. As people increasingly embrace and appreciate global diversity, Turkish rugs provide an opportunity to incorporate elements of Turkish heritage and craftsmanship into modern interiors.
• Versatile Design Options: Turkish rugs come in a wide range of designs, patterns, and colors, allowing for versatile styling options. They can seamlessly complement a wide range of interior design styles. With their quite luxury look and feel you can easily find rugs from Turkey that will look phenomenal in interiors based one: mid century modern design, Scandi home decor and Scandinavian interior design, minimalist interior design and even maximalist interior design as well as Mediterranean interior design and so forth. The rugs from Turkey are so varied that you can at least one that will work for almost home decor approach.
• Statement-Making Focal Points: Turkish rugs, especially the very best rugs of their kind, have a unique ability to become statement pieces within a room. Their beautiful designs and captivating use of colors draw can attention and serve as focal points that anchor the space. By incorporating a Turkish rug into your decor, you can create a visually captivating centerpiece that sets the tone for the entire room.
• Timeless Appeal: Turkish rugs have stood the test of time and have remained relevant and admired for centuries. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their timeless appeal. Whether you opt for vintage, antique and even some of the modern area rugs from Turkey, can possess an inherent beauty and craftsmanship that transcends passing trends.
• Environmentally Friendly / Eco Friendly: With the increasing focus on environmental issues such as global warming, the more environmentally conscious individuals are opting to source rugs that leave as little of a carbon footprint as possible. The vintage and antique rugs from Turkey are, without a doubt, one of the most environmentally friendly / green eco friendly types of area rugs one could buy which contributes to their constantly increasing demand.

Given these factors, Turkish rugs continue to be a favored choice for those seeking to buy area rugs that posses true historical heritage, beauty and cultural authenticity into their homes. Whether used as a centerpiece or a complementary piece, Turkish rugs bring an element of elegance and style to any space.

This interior design blog post about the history of and home decorating with Turkish area rugs was published by Nazmiyal Rugs