Antique Turkish Smyrna Rugs
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Learn More About Antique Turkish Smyrna Rugs and Carpets
Antique Smyrna carpets basically all the handwoven carpets that that made their way to the west via the city of Smyrna (which is the modern-day Turkish city called: Izmir). Smyrna carpets were more than likely produced in the town of Oushak which was one of the major carpets producing cities in modern day Turkey.
Most of the antique rugs that we call Smyrna today are basically the 17th and 18th century carpets that were woven in or around the town of Oushak. Recently, the name of Smyrna got applied to antique Turkish rugs that feature a certain type of pattern, which were usually got seen in smaller examples.
The city of Smyrna was a Greek city that existed as fat back as antiquity. Located at a central point of the Aegean coast of Anatolia, the city of Smyrna, around the 1930’s changed its name and is now known as the Turkish city of Izmir. Due to the great conditions of its ports, the ports’ ease of defense, and great inland connections, Smyrna rose to its current position of prominence.
Two of the ancient sites are within the city limits of Izmir. The first of these sites, which was probably discovered by indigenous groups, became famous during the Archaic Period as one of the Greek settlements of Anatolia. The second had a foundation that was associated with Alexander the Great. This site rose to prominence during the Roman Empire. Most of the modern day remains come from the Roman era. The majority came from an earthquake that took place in the 2nd century.
A distinction is usually made between the two sites. Old Smyrna was found around the 11th century BC. It was first founded as an Aeolian settlement, then later developed by the Ionians during the Archaic Period. Residents moved to Smyrna proper around the 4th century BC. The city’s foundation was inspired by Alexander the Great.
Old Smyrna sits on a small peninsula that’s connected to the mainland by an isthmus that sits at the northeastern edge of the Gulf of Izmir. It’s located at the edge of a plain at the foot of Mount Yamanlar. This particular Anatolian settlement soon took over the gulf.
New Smyrna developed both at the slopes of Mount Pagos (which is known as Kadifekale today) and the coastal strait. Immediately below this area, a small bay sat, where it remained until the 18th century. Right now, this site, known as Bayrakli Hoyugu is about 700 meters inland, located in the Tepekule neighborhood of Bayrakli.
The Hellenistic and the early Roman Smyrna got preserved in the Izmir Agora Open Air Museum at the site. Currently, scholars are researching both of the sites. Scholars have conducted this research since 1997 for the Old Smyrna site and 2002 for the Classical Period city site. The research being done is a collaboration between the Metropolitan Municipality of Izmir and the Izmir Archaeology Museum.
a month ago
Twenty or so years ago my father gave me a beautiful antique Persian rug - after so many years (and kids and pets) it needed some TLC, so I brought it to Nazmiyal. I just picked it up today and - wow! They got the stains out entirely and the entire rug is brighter; they also made some repairs - it's back in my living room and looks fantastic, and the bill was lower than I'd expected. Overall it was a great experience - the people are wonderful, the work was perfect, and I saw so many beautiful rugs at their store that I found myself wishing for a larger apartment. Next time I need any work done on a rug, or find an open bit of floor I know where I'll be heading.
4 years ago
It is always a delight going to the Nazmiyal showroom. This Qashqai is one of several purchases made over the years, and mom is truly enjoying it. Jason and the staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. They listen to the customeru2019s needs. When I go to the showroom, it is like visiting my family because we have the same appreciation for the textile arts.nnOriental carpets are a rare discipline to be educated in, because you canu2019t go to a university to have certain types of training and experience, such as knowing the cultures and processes of carpet weaving. Jason has such a refined eye that he can distinguish a good rug from a great rug, and that knowledge is offered to the customer to elevate their point of view.nnComing here has been an initiation into a world of culture, art, and beauty which has sustained me, and for that I am grateful.
4 years ago
Loved my runner rug purchase from Nazmiyal. Love the ability to purchase, try and return if it didn't work out! I had it shipped to California and everything worked out beautifully!
a year ago
NAZMIYAL is the best source for antique and vintage rugs and carpets. Staff is extremely knowledgeable, Jason himself is an amazing dealer who handpicks each and every piece in his stunning collection and is happy to educate the consumer, not just make a sale. I always trust his experience and great eye for all my spaces!
4 years ago
I had an absolutely wonderful experience working with Nazmiyal. I was very impressed by their selection, the quality of their beautiful carpets, and their extremely reasonable prices. Really I cannot say enough about how helpful everyone at the gallery was - especially Omri, work with him if you can! - and how happy I am with my new antique rug. Five stars, highly, highly recommended!