What makes Turkish Rugs Special?

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This gorgeous ancient Turkish rug boasts of a traditional medallion motif and geometrical shapes and tribal motifs. The classic Turkish design is given an updated look using a more neutral and warm color palette, making it suitable for not only Traditional style spaces but for contemporary homes as well. Perfect to be used for living rooms, dining areas, home offices, bedrooms, bathrooms or kitchens.

When one speaks of oriental carpets, Turkish rugs instantly pop out into our minds. But what is the real reason why these stunning pieces of decor became so well known all over the world. Join us as we explore the genuine beauty of antique Turkish rugs.

What are Turkish rugs?
The word "Turkish rugs" is more like an umbrella term which is used to classify rugs and carpets which are made in Asia Minor region. Turkish rugs are considered to be the rugs that started it all. Rug weaving originated with the arrival of Turkish tribes from Central Asia.

They are the first carpets which were exported to Europe during the ancient times.

Turkish rugs originated in the eastern and central regions of the Turkish Anatolian peninsula as early as the 13th century and gained worldwide recognition during the 19th century and early 20th century. Turkish, Armenian and Kurdish people were all active in the carpet weaving tradition and eventually developed and perfected their own original style which boasts of excellent artistry, superior construction techniques and distinctive patterns and color.

Traditionally, Turkish rugs were produced simply out of the need for a protective and durable floor covering. Due to the nomadic culture of the people behind it, they lived in tents to allow them to move from one place to another. The walls, roof and floor of their shelters all needed to adapt to their lifestyle, thus needed to be simple yet functional in nature and require to be easily transportable. The flooring, in particular, was a piece of carpet which was laid directly onto the ground. This served them with so many practical benefits, from being a leveler for the ground, an insulation, a protection from dirt or insects and a provider of comfort for their feet. With the use of antique rugs, they were able to get warm during the cold season and had a nice and comfortable place to sleep in.

Styles of Turkish rugs vary widely. Hereke rugs, for example, are Turkish rugs which are made from high quality silk and accentuated with gold fibers. Here rugs are also considered to be the most precious form of carpet which were used to decorate the palaces of sultans and prominent ottomans. It was essentially a status symbol and was also traditionally used as gifts between dynasties. The intricate weaving technique of double knotting that is used for Hereke silk Turkish rugs cause a change in its color depending on how it is subjected to the reflection of light. The elaborate and fine quality work which goes into it gives it a thread cot of 1 million knots per square meter - an attribute which is only found in precious Hereke rugs.

What makes Turkish Rugs Special?
Exquisite hand woven technique - Antique Turkish rugs are not only popular for their bold striking patterns and stunning color combinations but also because of the unique weaving technique that it employs. Turkish rugs make use of the symmetrical knotting technique, otherwise known as double knotting or the Turkish knot. With this technique, each knot is made on two warps. Each end of the pile thread is wrapped all the way around the two warps and then it is pulled down. This technique was perfected and passed down from generation to generation, making each piece of Turkish rug stay true to its roots.



Stunning patterns. This antique Turkish rug showcases a unique combination of traditional elements and motifs like the wheel of fortune which signifies wealth, the ram horn which stands for power, the chest which symbolizes dowry and the eye which is used to ward off evil. The patterns of Turkish rugs are not only purely decorative but direct reflections of wishes for a home or a household.

Stunning patterns - They say that each of antique rug is unique and that their designs tell a story. For Turkish rugs, each striking decor represents a different meaning and each pattern is symbolism of an emotion or natural event. The weavers traditionally incorporate their feelings and well wishes like love, good wealth, fortune and health into their designs.

Antique Turkish rugs also incorporate a mix of unique geometric patterns, intricate floral designs and attractive tribal motifs. The design composition of a Turkish rug typically has an asymmetrical composition and an open design characterized by the prolific use of elements like the central medallion design, the tree of life motif and prayer niches. It also acts as a direct reflection of the culture of its origin.

These distinct bold patterns are made through a vivid myriads of color, making each piece of Turkish rug unique and a true stand out when it comes to beauty.



Superior technique and High Quality. The back side of an antique Turkish rugs shows the real quality of the rug as it reflects the fine weaving technique that is used. The prominence of the design at the back is an indication of superior quality. Our rugs at The Rug Retail show this distinct quality, making them an attractive and valuable addition to your home.

Superior Quality - Turkish rugs are also well known for the high quality. The quality of a rug is determined by the number of knots used to make it, and this can be known using a simple step. Turning the rug upside down will show if the design is reflected at the back of the rug. The more prominent the pattern is at the back side of the rug, the greater number of knots, thus the higher knot count. Generally, Turkish rugs with a higher knot count are more expensive because it takes more time to finish the piece as it is more intricately woven. In order to be classified as a high quality rug, it must have at least an average of 500 knots or more. However, aside from the knot counts, there are still some other factors which determine the true quality of a rug.

Between the geometric patterned Turkish rugs and the floral patterned Turkish rugs, the latter has higher knot counts. Turkish rugs with floral, leaves and graceful shapes typically have a higher knot count simply because curvilinear forms can be done more beautifully and more perfectly with more knots. Geometric patterns and shapes, on the other hand, have more angular forms and prominent straight lines, thus they are easier to weave and do not require as much number of knots.



Made with the finest materials. This exotic Turkish rug makes use of a combination of high quality wool and cotton which is colored by natural dyes. The perfect combination of fine materials give Turkish rugs their unique aesthetics, bold colors and high durability.

Made with the finest materials - Turkish rugs are typically made up of soft lustrous wool, fine silk and superior quality cotton. These materials are typically used alone or combined together. Natural materials give Turkish rugs their high durability and allow them to last for years.

Turkish silk rugs are made from fine silk that is spun by silkworms into their cocoons. Silk is resistant, has high tensile strength and is very pliable. Any rug that is made from silk is generally considered to be more luxurious than cotton, wool or animal hair.

Turkish wool rugs, on the other hand, are often made with lamb or sheep fleece. The quality of wool is dependent on several factors. It varies according to the breed of the sheep the climate of the region and the time the wool is sheared from the sheep. Wool from cold regions have better quality because the sheeps are healthier as they are well fed in lands with abundant vegetation and water.

The main reason as to why wool is abundantly used in antique Turkish rugs is because it offers a lot of benefits. Turkish wool rugs have high strength and a natural shine which adds to the beauty of the rug. Aside from that, it is also pliable, can be easily woven and accepts colors well.



Bold colors using natural dyes. The diverse and wide blend of colors that is used for antique Turkish rugs are produced by using natural dyes which are derived from animals, minerals and plants. With the endless color choices available to dye the threads, the weaver has more room to express her creativity and create eye catching masterpieces. The antique Turkish rug shown above shows a simple striped pattern using a combination of saturated colors. Perfect to be used as a flat weave rug, table cloth, drapery, or upholstery.

Attractive use of natural dyes - Turkish rugs get their attractive colors from all natural dyes which are derived from vegetables, roots, flowers, animals, insects and minerals. Some colors which are produced from natural sources include red, navy blue, yellow, brown, gray and black. The combinations of these bold and bright colors give Turkish rugs one of their most well-loved aesthetic attributes.

This ancient practice which was widely used in Anatolia have remained over the years and is still constantly adapted to present day carpet making techniques. The main advantage that natural dyes present over synthetic dyes is that they are more long wearing and that they shine brighter and become more vivid when subjected to direct sunlight.

The natural dyes which are used for Turkish rugs are also through and through, meaning the same color is consistent for both the surface and the back of the carpet. Unlike synthetic dyes which come off when scratched heavily, natural dyes are more durable. The color also doesn't fade easily and lasts for years.




Not all Turkish rugs have vivid and striking color combinations. This antique distressed Turkish rug displays a traditional pattern combining floral and leaves pattern in gray color over a soft blue background. The subtle color combination is perfect for homeowners who want to add a splash of colors to their home, without committing to too much intensity. Its naturally washed out aesthetic is perfect for modern and contemporary inspired homes.



Why should you buy Turkish rugs?


A good investment - Some Turkish rugs can be a bit pricey but their supreme beauty makes them worthy of being an investment. Turkish rugs and other antique rugs are considered as highly valuable decor pieces and just like art, their value appreciates over time.

Timeless - Another benefit of Turkish rugs is that their beauty increases as they age. Since Turkish rugs are made with fine natural materials, they get brighter and become more lustrous over the years.

In addition to that, Turkish rugs are also proven to stand against the test of time because of their extreme strength and durability. They can stand the wear and tear of every use as a floor covering material or as an added accessory to a space.

Turkish rugs as interior decors also do not get out of style. A Turkish rug can adapts itself no matter what the prevailing style of your home may be. It is proven to last for not only years, but decades.

Versatile - Oftentimes, Turkish rugs are perceived to be suited only for oriental, Mediterranean or traditional inspired interiors. However, it is very versatile and flexible and when it comes to design application because they are well suited for most styles, whether traditional or modern, and can serve as a complement interior decor or a focal point in a space. In addition to that, the use of these stunning works of art is not limited. Antique Turkish rugs do not only serve as floor coverings but may be used as a hanging wall decor, a stair runner or prayer rug, depending on its size.

Experience and see the timeless beauty and quality of Antique Turkish rugs here at The Rug Retail


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