Antique Ushak Carpet

Period: Late 19th Century
Origin: Western Anatolia, Turkey
Dimensions: 245 x 280 cm

This elegant late 19th century Ushak carpet reflects the enduring influence of the classical Ottoman floral tradition, interpreted through the spacious and highly decorative style associated with Western Anatolian weaving.

The composition is centered around a monumental lobed medallion in warm golden ochre and coral red, surrounded by ivory spandrels and delicate floral ornament. Within the medallion, stylized palmettes, rosettes, leaves and small blossoms create a richly articulated yet balanced design. The broad red field is animated by large-scale floral motifs and scrolling vegetal forms, arranged in a relatively open composition that gives the carpet a sense of lightness and movement.

The design vocabulary combines palmettes, rosettes, stylized leaves and Ottoman-inspired floral forms, while the expressive drawing gives the carpet a distinctive character. The large-scale motifs and spacious field are particularly characteristic of the decorative Ushak tradition of the 19th century.

A richly ornamented main border surrounds the field, featuring large floral elements connected by scrolling vines. Narrow geometric and floral guard borders provide additional framing, creating a harmonious transition between the central composition and the outer edge.
The palette is especially appealing, combining madder red, golden ochre, ivory, muted blue, soft green and touches of coral. The natural ageing of the colours has created a mellow patina, enhancing both the depth and warmth of the composition.

With its monumental medallion, spacious floral field and characteristic Ushak palette, this carpet represents a refined example of late 19th-century Western Anatolian weaving, equally suited to sophisticated contemporary interiors and collections of antique Turkish carpets.

Stock No: 5213