Description
Origin: Turkey (Oushak weaving tradition in western Anatolia)
Actual Dimensions: 3′ 0″ × 18′ 0″ (rounded 3×18)
Style: Transitional
Material: Wool (hand-knotted pile, cotton foundation typical for Oushak runners)
Color Palette: Soft beige and light camel main field, muted terracotta and rust accents, pale sage green and gray-blue details, ivory outlines, subtle brown-black borders
This exceptionally long vintage Turkish Oushak runner features an open, airy composition on a gentle beige field that has aged to a warm, neutral tone. The design centers on a repeating series of large, softly drawn floral medallions and corner arabesques in faded terracotta and sage, connected by thin scrolling vines and small geometric fillers that create gentle movement along the extreme length. Wide outer borders carry simple repeating vine and flower motifs in muted tones, while narrower inner guards add delicate detail, resulting in a balanced yet understated elegance suited to transitional spaces.
Oushak runners evolved from historic Ottoman weaving centers, adapting large-scale floral and lattice patterns into narrower formats for corridors and galleries. Vintage examples like this one, often from the mid-20th century, display lovely natural fading and abrash variations in the wool, softening the once-vibrant dyes into a calm, sophisticated palette. The Turkish symmetric knot technique ensures even tension and a medium pile that remains comfortable and resilient over time.
This rare 18-foot length makes it ideal for very long hallways, wide gallery spaces, grand entry corridors, or running the length of a formal dining area or sunroom. The wool material offers natural durability, sound absorption, and easy maintenance with vacuuming and occasional professional cleaning. Transitional pieces like this blend seamlessly with both classic and contemporary interiors, providing timeless warmth and subtle pattern that enhances rather than dominates a room.