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Fabulous old Turkish Hereke rug from an estate. Wonderful condition. It was a bit gray with normal soiling so I had it professionally washed. Came out beautifully with vibrant colors and white fringes. Fringes are in perfect condition — and long fringes often wear down first. The size is 8 ft. 2 in. by 4 ft. 8 in. (that measurement includes fringes).
Extremely intricate and balanced, with precise weaving. 1960s.
Hereke, near Izmit Bay in Turkey, is considered one of the finest rug making centers in the world. (Many would argue it has been the pinnacle of elite rug creation over the last century and a half.) The Emperor Sultan Abdulmecid I established the Hereke Imperial Factory in 1843 to produce carpets and fabrics exclusively for the Ottoman Court. Hereke designs were inspired by the motifs of traditional Turkish carpets as well as the more elaborate curvilinear compositions of Persia and Mameluke Egypt.
During the late 19th and early 20th century, Hereke weavers produced their enchanting masterpieces exclusively for the aristocracy of the Ottoman Empire as well as visiting dignitaries and heads of state. Hereke hand knotted carpets, many made from silk, were presented as gifts to the royal families of Japan, Russia, Germany and England. As Hereke carpets gained acclaim throughout Europe, demand steadily increased . Eventually, toward the end of the 1800s, production increased to a point where Hereke carpets became available in the markets of Istanbul.
The founding of the Turkish Republic in 1923 interrupted Hereke carpet production. The new Turkish leaders, spurning the perceived decadence of the Ottoman aristocracy, considered luxury carpets as frivolous for building a modern nation. The Hereke carpet industry declined from 1923 through the end of the Second World War. The early 1950s, however, became a renaissance for Hereke rug production. Master weavers resumed the craft, and looms were set up in the homes of local villagers who wove carpets on contract. Today Hereke continues creating exquisite handmade wool and silk rugs for discerning collectors worldwide.
Price is $679. Shipping is $42 within continental U.S. Free pickup in the Bay Area or Monterey.
Please contact me with questions or to arrange to purchase. Thank you.
(HK0001 O80)