Turkish rugs are very special rugs that have spread their fame all over the world. So why are Turkish rugs so special and therefore so expensive? To find out the reasons, it is first necessary to know the history, structure and characteristics of this type of rug.
History of Turkish Rugs
The history of Turkish rugs goes back a long way. Rug culture has existed since the first Turks came to Central Asia. It has always been a very useful material in terms of making it easier to step on the ground during periods of nomadism and has always been used. Rug weaving has existed since the Seljuk period and has continued until today. From the 14th century onwards, animal patterns also began to appear. In the 15th century, geometric patterns began to be used as motifs. In the 16th century, designs dominated by flowers and branches, now known as classical Ottoman rugs, emerged. At that time, places such as Bandırma, Bergama, Kırşehir, Çanakkale and Uşak became weaving centers.
The rugs woven in Hereke were later recognized around the world and even today the best silk rugs in the world are woven in Hereke.
Turkish Rug Types and Places Famous for Rug Making
Turkish rugs, which are one of the indispensable elements of Turkish culture with a historical background dating back to Central Asia, are produced in many places in Turkey, but certain regions take the lead in this regard. Of course, rugs are divided into types in direct proportion to the culture, materials, characteristics, designs and patterns of each region and that region. The places famous for rug making in Turkey are as follows;
- Hereke: In Hereke, where the world’s best rugs are found, Hereke rugs woven from pure silk are also known as palace rugs.
Bergama and Hereke rugs are the best known in rug making. Apart from these, Isparta rugs, Çanakkale rugs, Döşemealtı rugs, Gördes rugs, Hakkari rugs and Kayseri rugs are also on the list as Turkey’s rug weaving centers and the most known rugs.
How to Recognize a Turkish Rug?
Today, many Turkish rugs are not original. In order to prevent this, it is necessary to know the characteristics of the Turkish rug. Knowing the answer to the question of how to understand the Turkish rug gains importance at this point.
- Turkish rugs are woven with cotton, silk and wool.
- The original rugs feature a double knot known as Turkish Baff.
- Turkish rugs mostly use geometric patterns.
- When you turn a handmade rug inside out and look at the tassels on the corners, if it is a machine made rug, the corners are sewn into the rug and when you pull the tassel, the thread is thrown across the entire rug.
Why are Turkish Rugs Special and Expensive?
Turkish rugs have distinctive features that make them recognized worldwide. What makes rugs so special is that they are unique. First of all, they are natural. Especially old period rugs are completely handmade. They have a historical value and a cultural theme reflected in their design. Since they are colorful and densely woven rugs, they are double knotted and require serious labor, which is very difficult to prepare. The double knot also reinforces the cross thread circumference twice. This makes these rugs strong and durable. Why are Turkish rugs, which make a difference with their double knot feature, expensive?
With all these reasons and their magnificent visuals, it seems that there is not one but many reasons why they are expensive.
