Turkish carpets have been prized for their beauty, quality, and craftsmanship for centuries. They are an important part of Turkish culture and history and continue to be popular among designers and homeowners all over the world.
The origins of Turkish carpets can be traced back to the 13th century when they were first woven in Anatolia (also known as Asia Minor), a region in modern-day Turkey.
Initially, Turkish carpets were used for practical purposes such as insulation for tents or protection from cold weather.
However, over time they evolved into intricate works of art that were coveted by royalty and wealthy merchants alike. The vibrant colors, complex designs, and attention to detail made them highly sought-after status symbols that could only be afforded by the elite.
What makes Turkish rugs so special?
Designers’ Love Affair With Turkish Carpets
Today, Turkish carpets continue to be highly valued in the world of interior design.
They are known for their luxurious texture, intricate designs, and bold use of color which make them a statement piece in any room. Designers love using them as focal points or accent pieces to add warmth, depth, and character to any space.
Turkish carpets come in various sizes ranging from small area rugs to large room-sized pieces that can transform any living space into a cozy retreat. Whether your style is traditional or contemporary, there is a Turkish carpet out there that will complement your design aesthetic perfectly.
It’s easy to see why Turkish carpets remain such a beloved fixture in the world of interior design after so many centuries. Their timeless elegance and exceptional quality make them an investment worth making if you’re looking to elevate your home’s aesthetic.
Is a Persian Rug the Same as a Turkish Rug?
Before we start to talk about the main topic of this article, it is important to understand the historical fact about the origin of both – Turkish and Persian rugs.
Turkish vs Persian Rugs
Turkish carpets and Persian carpets are not interchangeable, as they have distinct characteristics and origins.
However, there might be instances where the term “Persian carpets” is used to refer to Turkish carpets. For instance, an antique Turkish rug made in the 18th century and earlier may refer to as an antique Persian rug.
And it is understandable. At one time, the territory of Persia (now it’s Iran) stretched much wider than the borders of Iran nowadays and included the territory of modern Turkey and part of Africa. So it is worth understanding that some antique Persian rugs may well have been made by artisans from the regions of modern Turkey.
Due to their shared historical influences and cultural similarities, antique Turkish tribal rugs are often considered to be authentic Persian rugs.
Nevertheless, despite the fact that Persian carpets are one of the most valued in the world, in recent years, the global export value of hand-woven carpets from Turkey reached during only one single year an impressive $1.9 billion, surpassing Iran’s total of $35 million by a significant margin.
It’s important to recognize that Turkish carpets and Persian carpets are distinct and have their own unique characteristics, designs, and cultural significance.
The Most Expensive Turkish Carpet
Turkish carpets are known for their intricate designs and excellent craftsmanship. They have been in existence for many centuries and are still highly prized today. Of course, today the highest price tags have antique carpets.
As we already determined here, antique Turkish carpets may hide under antique Persian carpets. Antique Persian carpets, in turn, as our article on the top 10 most expensive carpets in the world shows, can cost millions of dollars. Such as the sold during the auction of Sotheby’s 17th century antique Persian carpet Clark Sickle-Leaf for $33.7 million.
Anatolian Carpet
If you are about to find out what is the most expensive Turkish carpet to find today on the market, you should definitely come across the Anatolian carpets and rugs.
What is an Anatolian rug? An Anatolian rug, also known as a Turkish rug, is a type of hand-woven carpet originating from the Anatolia region in Turkey. These rugs are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and high-quality craftsmanship.
Anatolian rugs often showcase traditional motifs and patterns that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. They are prized for their beauty and are popular among collectors and interior enthusiasts worldwide. Whether displayed on the floor or hung on the wall, an Anatolian rug adds a touch of elegance and cultural charm to any space.
The price range for vintage Anatolian rugs starts on average from $2000 and can reach $10 000 and more.
The price range for antique Anatolian rugs can reach $30 000 and more.
Antique Oushak Rug
One of the famous antique Turkish rugs is the Oushak rug (Ushak).
What is a Turkish Oushak rug? A Turkish Oushak rug is a type of hand-woven carpet originating from the town of Oushak in western Turkey. These rugs are renowned for their unique design characteristics and distinctive color palettes.
Oushak rugs are known for their soft, muted tones, and spacious patterns that often feature large-scale motifs and floral designs. They are prized for their exceptional craftsmanship, use of high-quality wool, and luxurious feel. Turkish Oushak rugs have been cherished for centuries and continue to be sought after for their timeless beauty and ability to enhance any interior space with their elegance and charm.
The price range for antique hand knotted Oushak rugs can reach $100 000 and more.
Other significant types of antique Turkish rugs worth mentioning are the Hereke and Sivas rugs.
Conclusion
The world of Turkish carpets unveils a fascinating journey through artistry, culture, and craftsmanship. From the exquisite details of the Anatolian rugs to the regal allure of the Oushak carpets, these masterpieces have captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
While the prices of Turkish carpets can vary greatly depending on factors such as size, age, design intricacy, and materials used, it’s the rare and exceptional pieces that command the highest price tags.
These carpets, often regarded as investments and heirlooms, embody the rich heritage of Turkish carpet weaving and showcase the skill and dedication of the artisans behind them.
Whether you dream of owning a breathtaking silk Hereke rug or desire to revel in the bold colors of an Oushak masterpiece, the journey to find the most expensive Turkish carpet can be as exciting as it is rewarding.
So, immerse yourself in the world of Turkish carpets, explore the auctions and galleries, and let the allure of these magnificent creations transport you to a realm where art and history intertwine.
Embrace the beauty, legacy, and undeniable craftsmanship that make Turkish carpets so cherished, and discover the price tags that tell tales of their unrivaled value.
