Description
Origin: Turkey (Oushak region in western Anatolia)
Actual Dimensions: 5′ 0″ × 13′ 9″ (rounded 5×14)
Style: Vintage Oushak gallery runner
Material: Wool (hand-knotted pile, probably cotton warp and weft foundation)
Color Palette: Deep brick red main field, ivory and beige medallions, dark brown/black borders, accents in soft gold, pale green, and muted blues
This vintage Turkish Oushak runner has a rich, deep red field that gives a warm and inviting base, with a series of large, ornate medallions arranged along the length for a rhythmic, elongated look. Each medallion features layered floral and star elements in cream and beige tones, outlined in darker shades, connected by smaller linking motifs that fill the field gracefully. The wide borders are detailed with repeating geometric and floral patterns in contrasting dark tones, framing the piece neatly and adding structure to the wide gallery format.
Oushak rugs trace back to the 15th century in western Turkey, originally influenced by Ottoman court designs but later produced in larger village scales with softer, more open patterns. Vintage pieces from the mid-20th century or earlier, like this one, often develop attractive fading and subtle color shifts (abrash) in the wool, creating depth and character that new rugs lack. The hand-knotting technique uses the symmetric Turkish knot, providing solid construction and a comfortable, moderately thick pile suitable for moderate traffic.
Ideal for long hallways, wide entry galleries, or beside dining tables in spacious homes, this runner adds elegance and warmth without overwhelming the space. The wool offers natural stain resistance and durability, with easy maintenance through regular vacuuming and occasional professional cleaning. Vintage Oushaks like this hold strong appeal for collectors and decorators due to their timeless style and potential value retention in the antique rug market.