Antique Turkish Oushak Runner

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Description

This striking Antique Oushak runner, woven around the turn of the 20th century, is a vivid testament to the grandeur … Read more This striking Antique Oushak runner, woven around the turn of the 20th century, is a vivid testament to the grandeur of Turkish rug weaving at its artistic peak. Crafted in the famed weaving center of Oushak, this oversized runner is a rare and richly detailed example that blends tribal vitality with courtly elegance.

The field is characterized by a dynamic, asymmetrical medallion layout, a hallmark of antique Oushak design, featuring large-scale floral motifs, stylized rosettes, and abstract botanical elements. The central medallions, each distinct in their palette and shape, are embedded in a diverse sea of terra cotta, ochre, and cinnamon tones, creating a mosaic-like visual rhythm across the length of the carpet. A striking contrast is achieved by the medallions’ saturated hues—burnt sienna, rust, ivory, and charcoal—set against a softly abrashed background.

The borders are equally captivating, filled with a profusion of traditional Anatolian floral motifs and geometric medallions in a saturated brick red, flanked by narrower guard borders that repeat smaller-scale rosettes and stylized tulips. Each motif bears symbolic meaning, echoing centuries of Anatolian cultural heritage.

Crafted with a soft, luminous wool pile, the texture is dense yet plush underfoot, giving this rug a luxurious presence. The weave is coarse and visible, another authenticating hallmark of genuine village-made Oushaks, meant to emphasize texture and durability over precision knotting.

The rug’s palette—infused with natural vegetable dyes—has mellowed beautifully with age, creating a nuanced, time-worn patina that enhances its antique charm without diminishing the richness of its design. The abrashed background shows graceful fading, lending depth and movement to the entire piece.

This exquisite antique rug, sourced from Doris Leslie Blau, showcases a rare blend of history and craftsmanship. Doris Leslie Blau offers a broad and varied pricing spectrum, accommodating collectors and designers across a range of budgets—from modest vintage finds to rare, museum-worthy masterpieces. See less