Oushak Rugs: Craftsmanship dating back to the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century

Oushak rugs are some of the most beautiful and intricate rugs in the world. Their design is inspired by traditional Turkish art and often features colorful geometric patterns and floral motifs. What makes these rugs so special is their unique texture and softness, which makes them perfect for adding a touch of luxury to any space. If you're looking for a stunning piece of floor art that will add personality and style to your home, then a Turkish Oushak rug is worth considering.

Oushak rugs have a long and rich history that can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire. Originating in the city of Usak in Turkey, these rugs were initially hand-knotted by nomads for their personal use. The city of Usak or Oushak, located in present-day Turkey near Istanbul, was a major center for carpet production during this time. Due to the beauty and artistry of these rugs, they soon became a staple in decorating mosques and the Sultan's palace. Over time, Oushak rugs became increasingly popular with the general public and were exported to Europe and North America where they were highly prized for their intricate designs and luxurious materials. Today, Oushak rugs are also produced in Iran and India as well and are admired worldwide for their elegant design and exquisite craftsmanship. 

Characteristics of Oushak rugs

Oushak rugs are characterized by their beautiful designs and intricate hand knotting technique. This technique involves knotting the foundation warps around pairs of weft threads, called the Ghiordes knot,  which creates a solid and sturdy foundation for the rug. The Oushak method also allows for a great degree of precision when it comes to design and patterns. Often featuring a central medallion, Oushak rugs incorporate motifs from nature, such as flowers, vines, and leaves. The colors in vintage Oushak rugs are typically soft and muted which also contributes to the overall feeling of elegance and refinement that is so often associated with these beautiful textiles. 

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing an Oushak rug is density. The density of a rug refers to the number of knots per square inch, and it plays a major role in determining the quality of the rug. A higher knot count usually means that the rug is made of finer material and that the design has a higher degree of detail. 

Decorating with Oushak Rugs

Oushak rugs are known for their elegant, timeless design. Often featuring a medallion motif or intricate floral pattern, these rugs can add a touch of sophistication to any space. Original Oushak rugs often feature a soft color palette which allows them to pair well with a wide variety of decor and furniture styles ranging from classic and traditional to modern and minimal. These beige and earth tones on an Oushak rug also help brighten up darker rooms and work well with almost any color accent. Oushak rugs are ideal to create a warm and inviting space without compromising on elegance.

Also discover our Turkish Rugs and Kilim Rugs, which are well suited for high-traffic areas without compromising on elegance and design.