The history of Turkish rugs predates the current nation of Turkey by almost 1,000 years. They can trace their origins back to the Seljuk Empire, which ruled Anatolia from the 11th century AD. The Seljuks used them as floor and wall coverings and to hang over doorways during the winter to prevent cold drafts. Seljuk carpeting was characterized by its use of intense color and geometric patterning.

Beginning in the 13 ^th century, the Ottoman Empire arose and ultimately defeated the Seljuks. While they made significant administrative changes to how the empire was governed, they kept many Seljuk traditions, including weaving intricate, durable floor coverings. The Ottomans, however, added their twist to the tradition by incorporating lavish designs that make them easily distinguishable from their Seljuk predecessors.

Anatolians

Anatolian carpets, also known as Turkish carpets, are perhaps the most iconic and widely recognized type of Turkish carpeting. Originating from the Anatolian region of Turkey, these carpets boast a rich history dating back centuries.

Anatolian carpets are characterized by their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and superior craftsmanship. They often feature geometric patterns, floral motifs, and elaborate borders, reflecting the Anatolian people's cultural diversity and artistic heritage. These carpets are handwoven using traditional techniques passed down through generations, with each region within Anatolia producing its unique styles and designs.

Bukharas

Bukharas, also known as Bokharas or Bokhara rugs, are hand-knotted carpets that originated in Central Asia and are produced in Turkey. These carpets are characterized by their distinctive patterns of repeated octagonal or diamond-shaped motifs known as "guls" - arranged in rows on a solid-colored background.

Bukharas are traditionally made using high-quality wool and dyed using natural dyes, resulting in rich, saturated colors that age beautifully over time. These carpets are prized for their soft texture, lustrous sheen, and timeless elegance, making them popular for traditional and contemporary interiors. Colors are often very rich, and Bukhara are typically woven from wool, silk, or cotton.

Cicims

Cicims are known for their intricate, colorful patterns and are typically woven with a combination of wool and cotton. What sets Cicims apart is their supplementary weft wrapping technique, which creates raised patterns on a flat-woven surface, giving them a unique texture. These rugs are often produced by nomadic tribes in Anatolia and are primarily used as wall hangings or covers rather than floor rugs due to their delicate structure.

Cicims incorporate a more tactile design element with their raised patterns than many other varieties of Turkish rugs, - such as Kilims, which are entirely flat-woven. Historically, Cicims often feature symbols of protection and prosperity, reflecting the cultural beliefs and traditions of the weavers.

Lottos

Lottos are named after the Italian painter Lorenzo Lotto, who depicted them in his works. These rugs originated in the 16 ^thand 17^th centuries and are renowned for their bold, geometric patterns, typically featuring a lattice design with interlocking star and medallion motifs. Lotto rugs are made from high-quality wool, dyed with natural substances to achieve rich, lasting colors. They are woven using the symmetrical (Turkish) knot, adding to their durability and texture. Unlike Cicims, Lotto rugs are designed for floor use and are known for their sturdiness. Historically produced in the western Anatolian regions, particularly in Oushak and Bergama, Lotto rugs were highly prized in Europe during the Renaissance, adorning the homes of the wealthy and influential. Their bold patterns and durable construction distinguish them from other Turkish rugs, such as the more delicate and symbolically rich Cicims.

"As far back as the 15 ^th century, Turkish carpets woven in the Oushak (or Usak) province were prized by the European aristocracy, and began to appear regularly in some of the most revered paintings of the time, including the paintings of Hans Holbein, as well as in those of Verrochio, and other famous artists of that era."
—Rodney Hakim, Rug Insider

Soumaks

Soumaks are another type of flat-woven carpet that originated in Turkey, with roots tracing back to ancient Anatolian weaving traditions. These carpets are woven using a twill technique that creates a thick, durable fabric. Soumaks are known for their intricate designs, often including geometric motifs, stylized floral patterns, and bold color combinations. They became especially popular during the Ottoman Empire, reflecting the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region.

These carpets are prized for their durability, resilience, and artistic beauty, serving as cherished heirlooms and decorative accents in homes worldwide, symbolizing a connection to a vibrant history and tradition.

Oushaks

Oushak carpets, also known as Ushak or Uşak carpets, hail from the town of Oushak in western Turkey. These carpets are celebrated for their soft, muted colors, spacious designs, and large-scale floral motifs. Oushak carpets were highly esteemed during the Ottoman Empire and were often used in palace settings and as diplomatic gifts. They feature a distinctive aesthetic characterized by open fields, oversized motifs, and harmonious color schemes. Oushak carpets continue to be coveted by collectors and connoisseurs for their timeless beauty and refined elegance.