Oushak

Oushak carpets gained popularity in Western markets around the turn of the century and were commissioned by various firms weaving in and around the western Anatolian town of Ushak . The current spelling, ‘Oushak’ reflects the French influence at this pivotal period. Weaving in and around Ushak, however, goes back centuries to at least the 16th century. Whereas Oushak carpets of the turn of the century often adapted popular Persian designs of the period, indigenous classical Ottoman designs persisted as well. This Oushak carpet uses the pale coloration so popular at the turn of the century, but with a central medallion design which may be traced back to classical Turkish precedents.