Vintage turkish rugs are a designer go-to when it comes to adding bohemian allure to a nursery or bedroom. Their durable construction and unique color pairings help to effectively tie together a space. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to find the perfect rug for your project. Here are some tips to make your search easier.
First, it’s important to note that vintage and antique are not the same. The term vintage applies to items 25 years old or older and the word antique is used for items over 100 years old. This is an important distinction because it affects the price you can expect to pay. In addition, if you are shopping for an antique rug, you should be familiar with the terms and conditions of the seller.
When shopping for a vintage Turkish rug, you should start by looking for a rug that is handmade or hand-knotted. It’s also a good idea to search for a rug with a wool or cotton foundation. This will ensure that the rug is woven from natural materials, which will keep it from getting damaged by harsh chemicals when cleaned.
While a hand-knotted rug is typically more expensive than a machine-woven one, it will offer superior quality and durability. In addition, a hand-knotted rug is usually woven using a more traditional style than a machine-made rug. This can add to the rug’s appeal and value, as it is a sign of exceptional craftsmanship.
A rug’s design is another key factor to consider when shopping for a vintage Turkish rug. Oftentimes, the rug will feature a geometric or slightly floral pattern. This style of rug has been popular in the past because it was woven by nomadic tribes to serve as a tent floor covering. In order to be easily transported, these tribes needed a flat piece of fabric that could be rolled up and stored.
The rug weaving tradition was introduced to the Middle East by Turkish people and related groups from Central Asia. Among the first of these rugs were the Seljuk ones which featured geometric patterns and more subdued colors than Persian rugs. They were so sought after that Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta mentioned them in their travel writings.
As the Turkish rug-making industry developed, it became a major component of the carpet weaving traditions in the Middle East. Weavers embraced the art of knotting and created a wide array of rugs, from those used by nomadic tribes to those used by palaces and court.