Turkish Kayseri rugs originate from the ancient city of Kayseri, located in central Turkey, strategically situated on the main road that runs east to west in Anatolia. Different Empires have conquered Kayseri throughout the centuries, notably the Armenians, Byzantines, Seljuks, Timurids, and the Ottomans. Byzantine and Seljik influences in art and architecture are visible in Kayseri to this day.
For centuries, the majority of Kayseri population was Armenian, who had a major impact in the production of Kayseri rugs. Carpets in this city are usually made using a combination of cotton and wool or pure silk. As Kayseri was located on the silk trade route, many of the influences on its rug designs come from Persia and other regions with which Kayseri traded.
Carpet making has been a very important practice in Kayseri for centuries, a tradition that has been passed down through families to this day. Typically, these oriental rugs were woven by a group of women who pooled their skills to handcraft these masterpieces. These rugs were very popular with the Turkish middle and upper class in recent centuries and continue to be popular in Turkey and worldwide
Wool rugs are usually made from hand-spun wool and were traditionally colored using natural dyes. Antique Turkish Kayseri rugs are unique in design, and even among Turkish rugs, they are easily differentiated from antique rugs made in other cities. Kayseri silk rugs are famous for their intricate designs, soft texture and fine weave. These silk rugs are not typically used on the floor. Because of their artistic beauty, Kayseri rugs are used to cover tables or as wall hangings. In terms of design, Kayseri Turkish rugs tend to be more formal and often employ floral motifs.
