Object Description
Fine Antique Oushak Runner, c. 1900
3.62 x 1.15 m
The weaving workshops of Western Anatolia, where Oushak carpets such as this piece were originally made, have a rich history, stretching back at least as far as the Early Modern era – as the 14th Century explorer Marco Polo once wrote, ‘here they make the most beautiful silks and carpets in the world, and with the most beautiful colours.’ During the 19th Century, these pieces were highly sought after in the West, inspiring many of the designs of European weavings of the period, and can be found in grand historic homes across the UK and Europe.
This beautiful early Oushak runner features a distinct, earthy colour palette, with tones of red, burnt ochre, ivory and soft camel tones in its drawing, and a spacious, open layout in the central field, with a repeated abstract motif running from one end to the other, well framed a four-part border of generous proportions – a bold layout, especially relative to this piece’s narrow format.
The vegetable dyes used in this carpet have all aged gracefully, and give the work a feeling of depth and character, though despite its age – being roughly 120 years old – this runner is in very good condition for everyday use; a handsome, decorative piece, which would make a fine addition to any setting.