Anatolian Rug | History | Kinds | How to Choose

Anatolian rugs, with their rich history and unique designs, are a testament to the artistic prowess and cultural heritage of Turkey. These handcrafted masterpieces have evolved over centuries, reflecting the influences of various eras, from the Seljuks to the Ottomans.

Whether adorned with geometric patterns from the early Yörük period or the floral motifs of the classical Ottoman era, each rug tells a story. These rugs are not just decorative pieces but are symbolic representations of Anatolian life, culture, and history.

The History of Anatolian Rug

Anatolian rugs boast a rich history intertwined with the cultural and artistic development of Turkey. While the origins of knotted pile rugs can be traced back to ancient Central Asia, exemplified by the remarkable 5th-century BC Pazyryk carpet,[1] Anatolian rugs developed their own distinctive character with the arrival of the Seljuk Turks.

Anatolian rugs are historically divided into two categories:

• Early Period Yörük Rugs: Decorated with geometric patterns and nature illustrations.
• Classical Ottoman Period Rugs: Adorned with floral motifs and medallion emblems.

The Seljuk Era (11th-13th Centuries): The Seljuks laid the groundwork for Anatolian rug making. While Great Seljuk examples are lost, the Anatolian Seljuks refined techniques, using the Gördes knot and wool, establishing core elements of later designs.

The Beyliks Era (13th-16th Centuries): This period, following the Seljuks, saw smaller principalities continue the tradition. It’s marked by the use of animal motifs in “Animal Figure Anatolian Rugs.”

The Ottoman Era (13th-20th Centuries): This era was a golden age. Royal workshops (often under the Ehli Hiref system) produced luxurious rugs with silk, wool, and gold. Initially influenced by Persian designs, they developed distinct Anatolian characteristics, with high demand in the 16th century for mosques and palaces.

The Hereke Rug Era (19th Century Onwards): Commissioned by Sultan Abdülmecid I for Dolmabahçe Palace, Hereke rugs, known for their fine craftsmanship and high knot density, gained international acclaim.

The Modern Era (19th-21st Centuries): Modernization brought the shift to workshops and factories, increasing production but challenging traditional techniques. Machine-made rugs emerged, impacting the handwoven industry, and even kilims faced competition from mass production. Despite this, Anatolian rug-making thrives, with artisans preserving traditions while exploring new interpretations.

[1] The Pazyryk carpet, discovered in a frozen tomb in the Altai Mountains, is considered the oldest surviving knotted pile carpet. Its intricate design and construction offer valuable insight into early rug-weaving techniques.

Features of the Anatolian Rugs

Anatolian rugs are crafted on handloom machines. Their dimensions can vary significantly, leading to some rugs taking years to weave. Although a rug is typically the work of a single individual, larger rugs can be crafted by two people.

The motifs found on Anatolian rugs are not standardized. They are shaped based on the desires of the weaver, often representing an event, object, or emotion that the weaver wants to depict or convey.

When coloring Turkish rugs post-weaving, natural dyes are used, ensuring the absence of synthetic materials. These natural dyes, derived from various plants, imbue the colors with rich meanings.

Motifs and Symbols on the Anatolian Rug and Their Meanings

Each motif on an Anatolian rug conveys a specific meaning, giving the rug its unique character. For instance, scorpion motifs symbolize evil or underworld forces. They also represent illness, pain, and sorrow, but they symbolize pride and freedom at the same time.

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Contrasting elements like sea-wave, mountain-valley, and male-female signify movement, fertility, and marriage. Hand and finger motifs are believed to be sacred, bringing good fortune and possessing healing properties. Birds represent the soul of the deceased, as well as women, happiness, and joy.

Every motif on an Anatolian rug carries a distinct meaning and significance.

Anatolian Rug Kinds

How are Anatolian Rugs Made?

Anatolian rugs are among the world’s most intricate and beautiful weavings. Despite their long and complex history, the fundamental process of making an Anatolian rug has remained relatively unchanged for centuries. Here’s a brief overview of how Anatolian rugs are crafted.

Initially, raw wool or cotton is dyed using natural colors. Once dyed, it’s spun into threads and wound onto spools. Weavers then use a shuttle to weave the thread onto the rug’s foundation.

Turkish rugs are handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional methods passed down through generations. The wool is colored with natural dyes and then hand-knotted onto a cotton base. Crafting a traditional Anatolian rug can sometimes take up to two years.

There’s a wide variety of Anatolian rug types, ranging from classic Anatolian designs to more contemporary geometric patterns. Each region in Turkey boasts its own unique rug style.

One of the most popular types of Turkish kilims is characterized by its flat-weave design. Kilims are typically made of wool or cotton and often feature vibrant geometric patterns. Another type is the Gördes kilim, which showcases traditional Anatolian patterns. Gördes kilims are usually crafted from wool and display vivid floral or geometric patterns.

Turkish Rug Motifs and Their Meanings

1. Scorpion Motif

2. Plus and Hook Motif

3. Fertility Motif

4. Bukağı Motif

5. Dragon Motif

6. Hands-on-Hips Motif

7. Eye Motif

8. Tree of Life Motif

9. Stamp and Seal Motifs

10. Human Motif

11. Eagle Motif

12. Ram’s Horn Motif

13. Wolf Mouth, Wolf Track, Monster Foot

14. Bird Motif

15. Earring Motif

16. Amulet Motif

17. Pıtrak Motif

18. Hair Tie Motif

19. Chest Motif

20. Waterway Motif

21. Comb, Finger, and Hand Motifs

22. Snake Motif

23. Star Motif

Distinguishing Handwoven and Machine-made Rugs

Knots

The easiest way to distinguish between a handwoven and machine-made rug is by examining the knots on its underside. Handwoven rugs are crafted with individual knots for each thread. In contrast, machine-made rugs lack these knots due to automated weaving. If you observe straight, ribbon-like knot traces, you’re likely looking at a machine-made rug. However, if the knots appear uneven and distinct, you have a handwoven masterpiece.

Patterns

Another telling sign is the rug’s design. Machine-woven rugs display perfectly symmetrical and regular patterns, a result of pre-set machine designs. On the other hand, even the most skilled artisan cannot achieve complete symmetry. Thus, slight variations in handwoven rug patterns indicate their authenticity.

How to Use Anatolian Rug

1. Avoid keeping your carpet in the same position all the time. At least twice a year, rotate its direction to ensure even wear on all sides.
2. Do not expose your carpet to direct sunlight for extended periods. Always keep it away from extremely hot and humid environments.
3. Ensure the legs of furniture placed on your carpet are not sharp. If necessary, place felt or a pad between the carpet and sharp furniture legs to prevent damage.
4. If you notice any unraveling knots on the sides or ends of your carpet, get them repaired immediately.
5. If you’re not planning to use the carpet, store it with mothballs, roll it with a cloth, and keep it in a dry place.
6. Occasionally, turn your carpet upside down for a while to allow settled dust to fall off.

How to Clean Anatolian Rug

1. When vacuuming, move in parallel and slow motions in the direction of the carpet’s pile.
2. There’s no need to beat or shake a carpet that’s regularly cleaned with a vacuum.
3. For routine cleaning, at least once a year, gently scrub the surface with a mixture of soapy water and a bit of vinegar. Avoid harmful chemicals.
4. Brush your Anatolian Rug at least once a year with a stiff brush or broom.
5. If your carpet gets stained, immediately blot the stain without rubbing. Remove solid parts gently and rinse later. Always choose stain removers from reputable brands with clear ingredients.
6. For a complete wash, entrust your carpet to a trusted professional carpet cleaner.

How to Store Anatolian Rug

Handwoven Anatolian Rugs are a favorite addition to living spaces. While using them is essential, storing them correctly is equally crucial to ensure their longevity. Before storing, always ensure the carpet is wiped and swept clean. Additionally, using a soft brush, remove any accumulated hair and lint from the surface. Instead of folding, which can harm the carpet over time, roll it up. This method prevents deformation. Storing in extreme heat or cold can damage the carpet’s structure, so it’s best to keep it at room temperature.

For long-term storage of decorative items like carpets, mothballing is a common practice. By placing mothballs near or with the rolled carpet, it prevents decay and gives a pleasant scent. Even when stored correctly, it’s beneficial to periodically air out the carpet. Allowing the carpet’s natural fibers to breathe helps in preventing deformation.

How Much do Anatolian Rug Costs?

The prices of handwoven carpets vary based on the type of yarn used, knot density, design, and even color. Therefore, before purchasing, it’s beneficial to compare models from different companies. The cost per square meter for handwoven carpets is determined by the area where it will be used.

Anatolian rugs, renowned for their intricate designs and rich cultural heritage, offer a wide range of options for buyers, with prices reflecting their diverse qualities and origins. In the bustling markets of Istanbul and beyond, these coveted floor coverings can be found for as little as $100 for small, decorative pieces, while larger, more elaborate designs may command prices from $500 to $5,000 or more.

Silk rugs and antique pieces from celebrated regions like Hereke and Oushak can fetch upwards of $15,000, appealing to serious collectors and connoisseurs. The cost of an Anatolian rug is influenced by factors such as size, material quality, design complexity, age, and rarity.

Potential buyers should be prepared to negotiate, as bargaining is a common practice in Turkish culture, and remain vigilant against counterfeit products to ensure they’re investing in an authentic piece of Anatolian craftsmanship.