Vintage turkish rugs add a touch of class and elegance to any home. They are also extremely durable and can be passed down from one generation to the next. However, it is important to know how to properly care for your rug to prevent damage.
Vintage Turkish rugs are handmade in small villages and towns throughout Turkey, often using patterns and designs that have been handed down for generations. They are woven by hand, so the quality of the craftsmanship is exceptional. They are known for their intricate patterns and vibrant colors. These rugs can be found in many homes and museums, as they are a beautiful way to show off traditional Turkish culture.
The art of rug weaving is a rich cultural tradition in Turkey, with roots reaching back to the Seljuks and Timurid rulers of central Asia. The earliest examples of this type of rug are still intact in the mosques of Anatolia, including the 13th century carpets of Konya and other cities in Central Turkey. The pious endowments of benefactors who built the mosques and other public buildings ensured that these beautiful works of art survived.
Sheep’s wool is the most common material used in these rugs because it is soft, durable and takes dyes well. It is less susceptible to dirt than cotton and does not react electrostatically, making it a natural insulator against both heat and cold. It also provides a comfortable and cozy feel underfoot. These rugs are not cheap, but they are a great investment for the long-term.
Various tribes from the Caucasus and the Middle East occupied Anatolia for centuries, bringing with them their own traditions that were reflected in the rug patterns they wove. By the time of the Ottomans, which ruled over one of the largest contiguous land empires in history, these old-world styles had developed a distinctively Turkish look that has remained with us.
Although the techniques of weaving and dyeing have changed, the ancient tribal styles remain, with a few changes in color and pattern. Contemporary rug makers have continued the Turkish tradition, but now incorporate synthetics for cost-effectiveness and durability suited to 21st-century life.
The most treasured vintage turkish rugs include Oushak rugs, which have complex patterns in warm earth tones of saffron, cinnamon and blue; Hereke carpets made exclusively for Ottoman sultans; and silk Kashan rugs from the 17th and 18th centuries. Each rug is unique, with its own story to tell.
To maintain the integrity of your vintage turkish rug, be sure to vacuum it regularly. It is best to use a low suction setting and a brush attachment so you don’t accidentally damage the delicate fibers. In addition, you should clean stains immediately. A little bit of soap and water can help to remove the stain. If you are unsure about how to clean your rug, seek the help of a professional. They should be experienced in working with vintage rugs and have specialized equipment to preserve the fibers and colors of your rug.