Custom Crafts

How to Recognize a Real Turkish Rug

Turkish rugs are treasured for their craftsmanship and beauty. These rugs come in many styles, from flat-woven kilims to plush knotted pieces. The materials used often include high-quality wool, silk, or cotton. Turkish rug makers have honed their skills over centuries, creating unique designs that reflect local traditions.

Key features of authentic Turkish rugs:

  • Hand-woven using time-honored techniques
  • Rich, vibrant colors from natural dyes
  • Intricate patterns with cultural significance
  • Thick, durable construction

When looking at a Turkish rug, check the knots and weave. Real Turkish rugs have dense, even knots on the back. The designs are often symmetrical and show careful attention to detail. These rugs can last for generations with proper care.

Common Questions About Turkish Rugs

Spotting Real Turkish Rugs

Real Turkish rugs have some key signs:

  • Hand-knotted, not machine-made
  • Natural materials like wool, silk, cotton
  • Unique patterns with small flaws
  • Knots visible on back
  • Fringes tied into the rug, not sewn on

Check the rug's back - it should mirror the front design. Machine-made rugs have a flat, uniform back.

Key Features of Turkish Rugs

Turkish rugs stand out due to:

  • Bold, geometric patterns
  • Rich, warm colors from natural dyes
  • Thick, soft pile
  • Sturdy construction
  • Cultural symbols and motifs

Many use the symmetrical Ghiordes knot, giving a plush feel.

A person inspecting intricate patterns and vibrant colors of a Turkish rug with a magnifying glass

Dating Turkish Rugs

Clues to a Turkish rug's age:

  • Faded, muted colors suggest older rugs
  • Wear patterns and repairs
  • Materials used (older rugs use all natural fibers)
  • Knot density (higher in newer rugs)
  • Design elements popular in certain eras

Very old rugs often have simpler patterns.

Valuing Turkish Rugs

Factors affecting a Turkish rug's value:

  • Age
  • Condition
  • Materials
  • Knot count
  • Rarity of design
  • Size
  • Provenance

Rare antique rugs can be worth thousands. New, high-quality rugs still command good prices.

Signs of Quality in Oriental Rugs

Top Oriental rugs share these traits:

  • Dense, tight knots (100+ per square inch)
  • Even, sturdy construction
  • Rich, clear colors
  • Intricate designs
  • Natural materials
  • Soft, lustrous pile

Quality rugs feel substantial and lay flat.

Types of Oriental Rugs

Common Oriental rug styles:

  1. Persian - intricate floral designs
  2. Turkish - bold geometrics
  3. Caucasian - tribal patterns
  4. Chinese - pictorial scenes
  5. Indian - ornate, colorful motifs

Each region has signature knots, materials, and patterns. Learning these helps identify rug types.

Related posts