The Qualities of Antique Oushak Rugs
Antique Oushak Rugs are a beautiful and unique classification of old rugs named after the city of Usak in Turkey. These carpets are known for being made with great attention to detail and quality, and are steeped in a rich historical tradition. Though many people are not as familiar with Oushak carpets as they are with the Persian counterparts, the rugs are considered to be some of the finest Oriental rugs available. They make a lovely addition to a home’s décor, and knowing more about the characteristics of these floor coverings can be helpful when researching purchasing options.
The history of Antique Oushak Rugs reaches back to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. Many of the true masterpieces of these old rugs from that time period have been classified as Oushak in origin. The name derives from the city of Usak, as this city was one of the largest in the region of Western Anatolia, where the carpets were made. The patterns common to these floor coverings were made in other regions as well, but are largely attributed to that area. There was a period of decline in the production of rugs from this area during the seventeenth century, as many European markets were choosing to go with rugs created in Europe.
Antique Oushak Rugs are most commonly recognized by the distinctive star and medallion patterns that many of them employ. The rugs are created with sumptuous colors, commonly with a soft red as a primary color with bright backgrounds. As the rugs progressed, Persian rug traditions such as floral patterns also became available, as well as a wider range of sizes to suit a broader market. The old rugs are woven with their characteristic high quality, silky wool that brings out the vibrant, unique colors and creates a product that holds up well and ages beautifully over time.
The history and qualities of these floor coverings show an attention to detail and durability that can be a good jumping off point to learning more about carpet choices. When looking for an old rug to use in the decoration of a room in a home, looking toward the various options available can provide a great deal of variety for a purchaser. The unique characteristics of each type of carpet available brings forth an avenue for any design style that fits with the room’s needs. With a beautiful range of design and size options available in Antique Oushak Rugs, they are a valuable avenue to consider when making a buying decision.
