Turkish carpets and Persian carpets are the two world-famous giants of hand-woven carpets. Known for their beautiful designs and high quality, they are valued not only as rugs but also as works of art. However, while they may look similar at first glance, there are many differences between them, such as their place of origin, techniques, and design features. This article provides a professional and easy-to-understand explanation of the differences between Turkish and Persian carpets for those considering purchasing a luxury carpet. We will explore the appeal of both carpets, which have been cultivated over a long history, and carefully introduce the key points for choosing one.

The basic differences between Turkish and Persian carpets

First, let's look at the basic differences between Turkish carpets (also known as Anatolian carpets) and Persian carpets. The biggest difference is in the weaving (knotting) method . Persian carpets are woven with a "single knot" in which one warp thread is tied to the other, while Turkish carpets are woven with a "double knot" in which two warp threads are tied together. This difference allows Persian carpets to express very intricate patterns, while Turkish carpets are characterized by their tightly knotted construction and excellent durability.

There are also differences in the trends of design and patterns . Generally, Turkish carpets tend to have geometric patterns and bold designs, while Persian carpets tend to have curvaceous patterns with floral motifs and central medallion patterns. Naturally, they are produced in different places, with Turkish carpets rooted in the traditions of the current Republic of Turkey (Asia Minor/Anatolia region), and Persian carpets rooted in the traditions of Iran (formerly Persia). The culture and historical background of each country is reflected in the designs, which can also be said to be a major difference.

Below is a comparison table outlining the basic differences:

Comparison items	Turkish carpets	Persian carpets
Main production areas	Türkiye (Anatolia region)	Iran (formerly Persia)
How to tie	Double knot (tie on two warp threads)	Single knot (tied on one warp thread)
Weaving characteristics	The knot is tight and strong. It is relatively thick and sturdy.	Expresses intricate and detailed patterns Highly flexible and supple
Design Trends	Geometric patterns, relatively large motifs (e.g. tribal patterns and abstract designs)	Curvilinear patterns with floral or botanical motifs (e.g. arabesques, central medallions)
color	Bright, high-contrast colors (tribal rugs often have bold color combinations)	Calm traditional colors (earth colors such as red, blue, and beige) *Varies by region
material	Wool, cotton, silk (some goat wool is used)	Wool, cotton, silk (traditionally no synthetic fibers)

As you can see, there are many differences between them, from the weaving method to the design and materials. In the next chapter, we will take a closer look at the characteristics of each.

Characteristics and Designs of Turkish Carpets

Turkish carpets, also known as "Anatolian carpets", are traditional carpets woven in Turkey (Anatolian Peninsula). Originally, hand-woven carpets were a necessity for the lives of Turkish nomads. They were used not only as coverings to keep out the cold, but also as decorations to brighten up tents and homes, and developed within the nomadic culture. For this reason, even today, carpets remain a necessity in every household in Turkey, and at the same time, they are an important traditional industry, and the whole country is working to protect carpet culture.

Design features: Turkish carpets are strongly influenced by the tribal cultures of Central Asia, and feature geometric patterns and bold compositions. For example, they often use straight lines, zigzags, diamond-shaped patterns, or tribal-style abstract designs. This is because they reflect the simple and powerful aesthetic sense of nomads, while also being influenced by Islamic art. The patterns are relatively large, and there are often designs with blank spaces on the base of the carpet. This gives a sense of spaciousness , and also has the advantage that the carpet blends easily into the room when laid out.

Colors: Turkish carpets vary by region and era, but traditionally they are characterized by vibrant colors made with natural dyes. They often have contrasting colors such as red, navy blue, orange, and green, giving them a simple yet powerful impression. For example, carpets from central Turkey often use deep reds dyed with madder and blues dyed with indigo, while Hereke carpets , which developed in the Ottoman court in the west, use silk and have delicate pale colors.

Material and technique: Wool is the main material, but silk is also used for high-quality items. Cotton or silk is used for the warp and weft threads, and high-quality wool or silk is tied to the pile. The most distinctive feature of the weaving method is the double knot (Gördes knot) mentioned above. This technique of tying across two warp threads makes the knot tighter the more it is used, resulting in a very strong and long-lasting carpet. In fact, when woven to the same size, Turkish carpets have a higher number of warp threads and a higher density, resulting in a heavy and sturdy weave. As a result, they are less flexible when folded or rolled up compared to Persian carpets, but they have the advantage of being durable for everyday use and less likely to be damaged when placed under furniture.

Representative production areas and designs: There are distinctive carpet-producing areas throughout Turkey. For example, the world-famous Hereke is a city where the royal workshop was located during the Ottoman Empire, and is famous for its silk carpets. Hereke carpets boast a high density of knots and are as intricate as Persian carpets, and are characterized by their gorgeous designs such as plant motifs, landscapes, and designs related to the imperial family. In addition , production areas such as Kayseri and Uşak (Uşaki) are known for their large geometric designs and star and medallion motifs, and are traded at high prices in the antique market. Small carpets called Yastik in eastern Turkey are cute-sized carpets that were originally woven for cushioning purposes, and have also become popular in recent years. As such, Turkish carpets have a variety of expressions depending on the production area, but in general, they have many designs that exude sophistication while being simple and powerful .

Characteristics and Designs of Persian Carpets

Persian carpets are traditional hand-woven carpets produced in Iran, and are also known as "symbols of Iranian culture" due to their high artistic value. They have a very long history, with prototypes said to have existed as early as 500 BC, and have developed into gorgeous rugs beloved by emperors and nobles. Persian carpets are considered to be among the highest quality carpets in the world, and their intricate, delicate designs and rich colors are unmatched.

Design Features: The greatest attraction of Persian carpets is the beauty of their design. Many Persian carpets have a medallion (a large circular or diamond pattern) in the center, surrounded by elegant motifs such as flowers, leaves, and arabesques. Curved and graceful plant and vine patterns are densely woven throughout the carpet, captivating the viewer. Due to the influence of Islamic culture, there are few idolatrous designs, but instead, flowers such as roses, lotuses, and irises , as well as symbolic motifs such as the tree of life , are used frequently, each of which represents wishes for prosperity and longevity. In addition, unlike Turkish carpets, which are dominated by geometric patterns, Persian carpets also developed realistic and pictorial designs. There are carpets that look like paintings, such as those depicting hunting scenes, scenes from legends and poems, and landscape patterns reminiscent of palace gardens. These designs were refined over the years and are said to have reached their peak in royal workshops during the Safavid period in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Colors: Persian carpets are characterized by their deep colors, which are the result of natural dyes. Traditionally , red, indigo, beige, ivory, and green are commonly used, and they have a refined vividness even in their muted tones. For example, carpets from Isfahan in central Iran are characterized by their refined arabesque patterns and harmonious vivid color schemes, while carpets from Tabriz in the northwest are known for their pictorial patterns and elegant colors. Nain carpets use basic, cool colors such as ivory and blue-gray, while Qom carpets use a lot of silk and have a lustrous color. As such, each production area has its own unique color, but generally Persian carpets tend to have more muted color tones than Turkish carpets, giving them a more elegant impression.

Materials and techniques: Persian carpets are basically made from natural materials such as wool and silk. The warp and weft threads are generally made of cotton, and the pile is generally made of shiny wool or silk. There are also high-quality all-silk carpets, with the warp threads woven from silk. The weaving method is single knot (Persian knot, also known as Senne knot). This asymmetric knot is used to knot each warp thread alternately, allowing for extremely fine lines to be expressed. It is not uncommon for Persian carpets to have hundreds of thousands of knots per square meter, and the high knot count is what makes them works of art. For example, high-quality carpets from the famous Iranian production centers of Tabriz and Isfahan can reach about 160 knots per square inch (about 1 million knots per square meter). This high-density weaving results in a very dense and smooth texture and intricate patterns. On the other hand, single knots have fewer warp threads than double knots, so although the carpet itself is flexible and easy to fold , the knots are prone to loosening when stepped on. However, high-quality wool pile is elastic and has excellent durability if handled properly. In fact, there are many antique Persian carpets that still retain their beautiful luster even after more than a hundred years.

Representative production areas and designs: Persian carpets also have their own characteristics in each region. In addition to Isfahan and Tabriz mentioned above, there are many other types, such as Nain , characterized by its delicate blue-green patterns, Qom (Qom) , a silk producing area with intricate workmanship, Hamadan and Baluchi , which are simple and powerful woven by nomads, and Heriz and Gabbeh (thick carpets of the Qashqai people in the south), which have a tradition of geometric patterns. What can be said about Persian carpets as a whole is that each region has developed its own unique design and techniques over its long history. For example, in Isfahan, the capital of the Safavid dynasty, highly artistic court carpets were woven under the auspices of royalty and aristocrats, while rural villages and tribes continued to weave simple yet unique carpets. This diversity is also part of the deep charm of Persian carpets.

Differences in materials and manufacturing methods used

As mentioned above, there are differences in the weaving techniques (knotting methods) between Turkish carpets and Persian carpets. Here we will summarize some more technical differences and the differences in how materials are used.

• Different knots:

  Turkish carpets are woven with double knots (Turkish knot, Gördes knot) , while Persian carpets are woven with single knots (Persian knot, Senne knot). Double knots are tied by tying two warp threads together, so when viewed from the back, the knots are aligned, not staggered. On the other hand, single knots are tied alternately for each warp thread, so when viewed from the back, the knots look more dense, as if they are crossed. This difference affects not only the appearance, but also the nature of the carpet. Double knots are entangled twice, so they are resistant to friction and pulling, and are highly durable . In fact, the robustness of Turkish knots is appreciated as a floor covering that is stepped on daily, and durable Turkish carpets have been highly rated in the European and American markets. On the other hand, single knots are tied one by one, so even if the same thickness of thread is used, they are slightly more likely to loosen, but they can express more intricate patterns . This is truly a division of the two, with "more delicate Persian, more sturdy Turkish." However, in recent years, there are Persian carpets that are tightly woven with thick threads and are suitable for practical use, and Turkish carpets with high density and intricate patterns (for example, Hereke silk carpets), so it is difficult to say which is more elaborate or sturdy. All of them are still handmade , and their production requires advanced skills and a long time.

• The different materials used:

  Both types of carpets are basically made of natural materials, but there are some differences in the traditional combinations. Wool and silk are typical of Persian carpets, and the general composition is cotton for the warp and weft threads and wool for the pile. High-end products include "silk Persian" carpets, which use silk for the pile, and are attractive for their unique luster and suppleness. Silk carpets can be knotted very finely, and even small sizes can be high-end products that cost over 150,000 yen. On the other hand, Turkish carpets are also mainly made of wool and silk, but a distinctive feature is that they sometimes incorporate goat hair . In some Turkish tribal carpets, goat hair is mixed with wool to give them a unique texture and durability. Also, traditionally, Turkish carpets often use wool for the warp and weft threads, and it is not uncommon to see them made entirely of wool (especially antique nomadic carpets). In this case, the carpet will be slightly thicker and have a more cushioned texture than a Persian carpet.

• Dye and shade differences:

  Although not strictly speaking the material, there are also traditional differences in dyeing. Both Persian and Turkish carpets used natural dyes derived from plants and insects in the past, such as madder (red), indigo (blue), pomegranate peel (ochre), indigo, and cochineal (crimson). Persian carpet dyeing is particularly sophisticated, producing unique colors such as the beautiful indigo blue known as "Persian blue" and deep crimson red. On the other hand, tribal dyeing of Turkish carpets is characterized by simple, powerful, and slightly contrasting color schemes. However, both are now also used with chemical dyes, and improvements are being made to make them more durable and vibrant. Some high-end carpets still use natural dyes, but modern dyeing techniques are often used to prevent fading due to sunlight.

As mentioned above, there are traditional differences in materials and manufacturing methods, which lead to differences in the texture and performance of the carpets. However, one thing they all have in common is that they are "hand-woven crafts that do not use chemical fibers." Unlike cheap machine-woven carpets, the appeal of both is that you can enjoy the texture of natural materials such as wool and silk and how they change over time.

Historical background and cultural significance

When talking about Turkish and Persian carpets, knowing their long history and cultural background will help you to deepen your understanding of both. Let's take a look at the history and cultural significance of each carpet.

History and culture of Persian carpets: The origin of Persian carpets dates back to the ancient Persian Empire, and they have a history of more than 2,500 years. The Pazyryk carpet, which is said to be the oldest surviving carpet in the world, dates back to the 5th century BC, was excavated from a burial mound in Siberia, and is currently housed in the Hermitage Museum. It is speculated to be a Persian carpet or a Central Asian nomadic carpet, but in any case, it is evidence that carpet culture has been developing in the Persian region since ancient times. Eventually, carpets became a necessity of life in Persia (Iran), and at the same time, they established their position as art and crafts. When Islam spread in the 7th century, the patterns of carpets incorporated characters from the Quran and patterns from Islamic art, and they also took on religious and spiritual meanings. Especially during the Safavid dynasty in the 16th and 17th centuries, kings and nobles patronized carpet workshops, and many masterpieces were produced, including prayer carpets and huge carpets to decorate palaces. Soon, these refined Persian carpets were exported to Europe via trade routes. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Persian carpets became extremely popular among European aristocrats and the wealthy, and were highly valued as representative "Oriental Carpets." Some were even housed in royal collections and museums, and their artistic quality became known throughout the world.

In terms of cultural significance, Persian carpets are considered a symbol of Iranian art and culture . Traditionally, they were valued as part of a bride's dowry, and are treasured assets passed down through families and generations. Each carpet is imbued with the skill and passion of the weaver, and the patterns reflect Persian poetry, mythology, and views of nature. Persian carpets are also known as the "art of textiles," and their cultural and artistic value is extremely high. Even today, the Iranian government is committed to promoting the export of Persian carpets and training craftsmen, and they are protected as a traditional craft representing the country. In addition, there are vintage and antique Persian carpets, whose value increases with age, and they are attracting attention as cultural heritage and assets.

History and culture of Turkish carpets: Turkish carpets (Anatolian carpets) also have a very long history, and are one of the birthplaces of carpets from the Middle East to the Caucasus. Originally, Turkic nomads originating from Central Asia used hand-woven carpets as rugs and wall hangings in their mobile dwellings, tents. When they advanced into the Orient, the technology spread to Anatolia and flourished. During the medieval Seljuk and Ottoman periods, Turkish carpets developed while incorporating fine geometric patterns and the influence of Islamic art. In particular, geometric patterned carpets woven in Anatolia (Asia Minor) around the 13th century are often depicted in church paintings in Western Europe as "Anatolian carpets." Turkey's full-scale contact with Europe began when the Fourth Crusade occupied Constantinople (now Istanbul) in 1204, and many Turkish carpets were brought back as spoils. This was the first time that Oriental carpets were introduced to European society, and Turkish carpets became a status symbol for royalty and aristocracy. Marco Polo also praised Turkish carpets in his writings, saying that they were "extraordinarily beautiful and the best in the world," and it can be seen that their fame spread from the Middle Ages to the early modern period.

The cultural significance of Turkish carpets is based on practicality more than Persian carpets, but they are still an important traditional craft related to the country's identity. Even in modern Turkey, the hand-woven carpet industry is protected and encouraged as a national policy, and cultural dissemination is also active, such as demonstrations and workshop tours for tourists. Turkish carpets are sometimes compared to "the most practical painting in the world." In other words, they are art that is closely related to daily life, in the sense that they are works of art that can be laid on the floor and enjoyed while walking on them every day. Although they are durable and can be used daily, their patterns and colors enrich the hearts of those who see them. This positioning of Turkish carpets as "art in daily life" is what can be said to be the cultural value of Turkish carpets. While they are not as formal and familiar as Persian carpets, there are also antique Turkish carpets that collectors covet, and there are cases where they are sold at high prices at auctions in Europe and the United States. In other words, both Turkish carpets and Persian carpets are the crystallization of tradition and pride that have been nurtured within their respective cultures and histories and have continued to be loved by people .

Market value of Turkish and Persian carpets

Both are known as luxury carpets, but what are the differences in their market value (price range) and evaluation? In conclusion, both are expensive crafts , and the price varies greatly depending on the quality, size, material, and age. It is difficult to say which is more expensive, but the general trends and market prices are summarized below.

• Price range: Both Persian and Turkish carpets have a wide range of prices depending on the size and material. Even new, current products can be purchased for a small entrance mat size (a few dozen centimeters square) for a few tens of thousands of yen, but for a full-fledged living room size (about 2 to 3 tatami mats), wool carpets can cost hundreds of thousands of yen, and silk and high-density carpets can cost over 1 million yen. For example, it is said that the high-quality Turkish Hereke carpet , about 150 x 200 cm in size, starts at about 300,000 to 500,000 yen. On the other hand, the market price for a small wool carpet is about 80,000 yen, and even a small silk carpet (about 60 x 90 cm) is about 150,000 yen. A large, high-quality Persian carpet can easily cost several million yen, and rare antiques and one-of-a-kind items from famous workshops can reach tens of millions of yen . In other words, both products range in price from cheap to expensive , but since they are hand-woven carpets, they tend to be high-end products.
• Evaluation points: Market value is determined by quality and artistry , rather than simply whether the carpet is Persian or Turkish. Evaluation criteria include (1) knot density (fineness of knots), (2) perfection and beauty of design, (3) quality of material (percentage of silk and high-quality wool), (4) state of preservation, (5) age and rarity, and (6) reputation of the place of origin. Generally, Persian carpets have a stronger global brand and tend to fetch higher prices. Hand-woven carpets from famous Iranian carpet-producing areas such as Isfahan , Kashun , and Tabriz are particularly highly regarded internationally. Persian carpets are also valued as works of art, so there is an antique market where the older the carpet, the higher its value. On the other hand, Turkish carpets, such as Hereke carpets from the Ottoman court, old carpets from the 18th and 19th centuries, and Ortakoy carpets, are collectors' items. However, compared to Persia, Turkish carpets have a history of being mass-produced, and it is important to note that in modern times, inexpensive machine-woven products are also being sold as "Turkish carpets." Machine-woven carpets are easy to distinguish because the patterns are printed and not visible on the back, and the fringes are sewn on, but they are inexpensive and therefore widely available on the market. They are priced lower because they are less durable and less artistic than genuine hand-woven carpets.
• Asset value: As mentioned above, the more a high-quality hand-woven carpet is used, the more it develops its character, and in some cases its value as a vintage item increases. In particular, some antique Persian carpets are traded at high prices at global auctions, and some people even collect them as an "investment." Rare antique Turkish carpets are also becoming more valuable, but overall Persian carpets may be more likely to be considered as assets. However, in modern times, the mainstream idea is to purchase them as a lifelong favorite item to be passed down to the next generation, rather than as a speculative purchase. Both carpets can last for decades, or even more than a hundred years in some cases, if properly maintained, so their value as durable consumer goods is also reflected in their prices.

In summary, Turkish and Persian carpets are not cheap, but are truly **value for money.** It is important to assess the merits of each and choose the one that suits you best, according to your budget.

Carpet maintenance and care

If you take good care of a high-quality hand-knotted carpet, it will last for many generations. However, neglecting maintenance can damage its beauty and value. Here we will introduce basic maintenance methods common to Turkish and Persian carpets, as well as tips for making them last longer.

• Daily cleaning: Dust and sand can damage carpets, so regularly remove dust with a vacuum cleaner or brush . Ideally, you should do this every 2-3 days, but if this is difficult, you can do it once a week. When vacuuming, do so slowly in the direction of the pile, and do not use powerful rotary brushes. Be careful not to damage the fibers, and it is effective to knock off dust that has accumulated on the back as well as the surface by beating it outside about once a month.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Carpets can fade if exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. Natural dyes are particularly susceptible to fading due to UV rays. When laying your carpet in a room, avoid placing it near a window where it will be exposed to direct sunlight, or use curtains or blinds to adjust the position. Another tip for extending the life of your carpet is to turn it regularly to prevent color fading and wear from concentrating in one place.
• What to do when stains occur: If a drink is spilled or a pet has made an accident, it is important to deal with the stains immediately . First, absorb the moisture with a dry cloth or paper towel, and if it gets wet, wipe it off by tapping it with a tightly wrung rag. Do not scrub the carpet as this will cause the dirt to penetrate deep into the fibers. It is effective to soak a rag in lukewarm water mixed with a diluted neutral detergent and gently tap the carpet along the direction of the pile. If a dark-colored liquid is spilled, it may stain, so it is a good idea to consult a professional dry cleaner as soon as possible. Silk carpets are particularly delicate, so it is safer to minimize self-treatment and leave it to the professionals.
• Regular cleaning: Consider having your carpet professionally cleaned once every few years to remove oily stains and accumulated dust that cannot be removed by daily cleaning. Dry cleaning shops that handle hand-woven carpets will carefully clean them with water and soap, replenish the oil content, and restore the luster. It is important to avoid full-scale cleaning by amateurs as it may damage the fibers, and to ask a reliable company to do the job. For carpets that have been used for many years or antiques, it is a good idea to ask for maintenance such as repairing frayed fringes and re-stitching the edges in addition to cleaning. With professional maintenance, your carpet will surprisingly regain its vividness and texture.
• Storage precautions: When storing carpets for different seasons, be careful of mold and insect damage. Store in a well-ventilated place away from moisture. Wool carpets are particularly susceptible to insects (such as brown recluses), so it is a good idea to add an insect repellent to them. Silk carpets are safer when stored loosely rolled rather than folded, to prevent creases. After storing any carpet for a long period of time, lightly dust it off and brush the pile before laying it down.

These are the basics of maintenance. If you follow these steps, you can keep your Turkish or Persian carpet in beautiful condition for a long time. A carpet only gains value through use, so take care of it daily, incorporate it into your life, and enjoy watching it change over time.

Important points and precautions when purchasing

When you finally decide you want one for yourself, there are a few things you should pay attention to when purchasing a Turkish or Persian carpet. Since it is an expensive purchase, be sure to check the following points to avoid making a mistake.

• Buy from a trusted source:

  If it is your first time buying a luxury carpet, it is recommended that you check the actual item in a physical store if possible. When buying online, you may regret your purchase because the color of the actual item may differ from the photo or you may not be able to understand the texture. At a specialized store, knowledgeable staff will explain the origin and characteristics of the carpet, and you can touch it directly to check the quality. In addition, Persian carpets may come with an official certificate from the Iranian government, so be sure to check whether or not they have such an appraisal or certificate of origin . To determine whether a store is trustworthy, you can refer to their long history of business, their depth of expertise, and customer reviews.

• Check if it is hand-woven or machine-woven:

  Generally speaking, what is called a "Persian carpet" or "Turkish carpet" is hand-woven, but some machine-woven products are sold under these names. Machine-woven carpets themselves are practical and not bad, but their value is significantly different from genuine hand-woven carpets. Check the back of the carpet and if the knots are too uniform or the pattern is unnaturally interrupted, it is likely machine-woven. Carpets with fringes sewn on later are also machine-woven. When purchasing, make sure to ask "Is this hand-woven?" and make sure you are satisfied before making your choice.

• Check size and use:

  When choosing a carpet, it is important to choose a size that fits the space where you will be placing it . Even if you find a design you like, if it is too big or too small for the room, it will look unbalanced. Measure the dimensions of the space before purchasing and visualize the optimal size. Choose the appropriate shape and size depending on the purpose, whether it is a large rug that will cover the entire room, or a rug size that will only cover a part of the room. Also, consider how it will go with the furniture. If you are placing it under a table, make sure it is a size that does not interfere with pulling out and putting out chairs, and if you are placing it in front of a sofa, make sure it covers the floor, etc. You will be less likely to make mistakes if you simulate the details .

• Design preferences and interior harmony:

  If you are undecided between Turkish and Persian, you will be more satisfied if you choose based on your preference of design . If you like the casual and warm atmosphere of geometric patterns, choose a Turkish carpet, and if you want an elegant and gorgeous atmosphere, choose a Persian carpet. In fact, each carpet has its own unique charm, so focus on the design that appeals to you and your family. It is also important to make sure that the carpet matches the existing interior. Make sure that the carpet's color and pattern harmonize with the colors of the floor, furniture, and wallpaper patterns, and that it fits the theme of the entire room. However, an unexpected combination can completely change the impression of a room, so in the end, the deciding factor will be whether you feel that you want to have this carpet in your home.

• Price/quality balance:

  Luxury carpets are generally expensive, but you want to make sure the quality is worth the price . The fineness of the knots directly affects the price, and the more silk the carpet contains, the more expensive it will be. On the other hand, simple carpets made mainly of wool are relatively affordable. If you find one that is too cheap, it may be a Persian print rug or a Gabbeh (another type of long-pile woven fabric). To make the best choice within your budget, compare multiple products and check the density of the knots, the intricacy of the pattern, and the material labeling. Since it is something you will use for a long time, it is worth choosing a high-quality item that you like even if it is a little over budget.

• Other points to note:

  When purchasing, ask about the carpet's warranty and after-sales service . It's reassuring if the store offers advice on cleaning and repairs. Purchasing a carpet while traveling abroad can be a chance to find an unexpected bargain, but it can also come with issues such as price negotiations, shipping arrangements, and customs duties. If it's your first time and you're unsure, it's safest to choose from a domestic specialty store. Also, when gathering information on Persian carpets, you will come across similar products such as "Gabbeh" and "Dantong (Chinese carpet)," but they are different, so don't confuse them.

If you keep these points in mind, you should be able to avoid making a big mistake when choosing a carpet. Look at the actual carpet, touch it, and think about the story it tells before finding your favorite one. Your encounter with the carpet that will come into your home by chance will also be a cherished experience.

Why are Turkish and Persian carpets so popular?

Both Turkish and Persian carpets are loved all over the world, but what is the reason for their popularity ? We will summarize the common charms of Turkish and Persian carpets, as well as their individual charms.

Common appeal: The first thing they have in common is the warmth and artistry that only hand-woven carpets can offer . The tasteful designs and careful weaving quality that are not found in mass-produced products are so appealing that you will not want to let go of them once you have them in your hands. In addition, the soft feel and high durability of natural materials such as wool and silk are also reasons for their popularity. The fact that they combine practicality and beauty and can be enjoyed as "works of art that can be used in everyday life" is a major attraction. In addition, the reliability backed by a long tradition and the timeless and universal design also support their popularity. Whether in the East or the West, hand-woven carpets can elevate the class of a space simply by laying them in a room, creating a unique atmosphere and warmth. For this reason, they are always in demand among interior enthusiasts, and their value remains stable in the second-hand market.

The unique charm of Turkish carpets: The popularity of Turkish carpets is due to their durability and familiar design . The double knots make them durable for everyday use, and they are highly practical because they have many traditional patterns that do not show dirt easily. In addition, the casual designs such as geometric patterns and rustic tribal patterns are well-received as they are easy to match with both Japanese and Western spaces, and are easy to incorporate into Japanese homes. In terms of price, there are many lineups that are relatively affordable compared to Persian carpets, so they are often chosen as "the first authentic carpet". Furthermore, in recent years, vintage Turkish carpets (especially Ushak patterns and Kilims) have become popular as accent rugs in Scandinavian interiors, and are being re-evaluated by the younger generation. Turkish carpets are loved as a companion to daily life, including the fact that they develop a unique character the more they are used .

The unique charm of Persian carpets: The reason why Persian carpets are so popular is that they shine as works of art . Their intricate and elegant design and vivid colors attract people at first sight. If you lay them in a room, they will have an overwhelming presence and will surely become the main focus of your interior. Traditionally, they have been considered a symbol of wealth and elegance, and they are an item that brings great joy and satisfaction to those who own them. In fact, many people feel that displaying a museum-class Persian carpet in their living room is a great status symbol. In addition, Persian carpets have a romantic atmosphere that stimulates the owner's sensibilities , as each pattern on them is imbued with meaning and has a story. The fact that you can have a "hand-woven art that is one of a kind in the world" at your fingertips is itself a reason for their popularity. Furthermore, Persian carpets do not lose value over time, and they can even be valued as antiques, so you can enjoy long-term satisfaction . Another attractive feature is that you will discover something new every time you look at them after purchasing them, and the joy of owning them never fades.

Psychological and cultural aspects: Another interesting point is that oriental carpets are associated with a mysterious and exotic longing . Just like the story of Aladdin's magic carpet, carpets from the East have a romantic feel to them. Persian carpets in particular have long been praised by the West as "works of art woven with the culture of a country." As an extension of this, Persian carpets have been treated as the highest quality imported goods in Japan since the Meiji period, and have a history of decorating the mansions of the wealthy. With this background, many people dream of "getting a real Persian carpet someday." Similarly, Turkish carpets, combined with oriental interiors and admiration for Ottoman Turkey, attract people. Furthermore, in modern times, many photos of old carpets laid out in stylish rooms are shared on social media, and the fact that they are attracting attention as an interior trend is also driving their popularity.

As mentioned above, Turkish and Persian carpets have been loved all over the world for many years not only for their quality and beauty, but also for various factors such as the culture and history behind them and the joy of owning them. Once you experience their charm, many people say, "I can never go back to mass-produced carpets." They are truly a lifelong partner , and have garnered much support.

Summary: Which carpet should you choose?

We have looked at the differences and charms of Turkish carpets and Persian carpets, but in the end, it may be difficult to decide which one to choose. In conclusion, it is best to choose according to your own preferences and lifestyle . Below are some tips for choosing.

• Choose based on your design preferences: If you are drawn to intricate floral patterns and elegant designs, a Persian rug will suit you. On the other hand, if you like geometric and simple patterns, a Turkish rug will suit you. Since you will be looking at it every day, it is important to choose a pattern that makes you feel happy when you look at it.
• Practical or artistic: If you want to use it daily and value durability, Turkish carpets are the winner. The strength of the double knots translates into resistance to dirt and wear. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a beautiful carpet even if you have to be careful when stepping on it, Persian carpets are recommended. The luxury of laying an intricate carpet on the floor and looking at it is exceptional, and it will give the entire room a sophisticated look.
• Budget and size: If you want to look for something in the affordable range, there are many relatively inexpensive Turkish carpets, and it is easy to find bargains on the second-hand market. Persian carpets tend to be quite expensive even if they are small, so you may need to compromise on size or limit yourself to wool materials to stay within your budget. However, if you think about the future value and satisfaction, it is worth stretching a little to choose your favorite.
• See the real thing and decide: Finally, if possible, we recommend that you actually compare both carpets. There are textures and auras that cannot be conveyed through photos or text alone. If you ask the shop to lay out a Turkish carpet and a Persian carpet side by side and touch and step on them, you will be able to feel the difference on your skin. Then you will intuitively feel that "this one is my favorite."

Whichever you choose, the richness that a hand-knotted carpet brings will surely add color to your life. The durability and simple warmth of Turkish carpets, and the elegant artistry of Persian carpets. Both have their own unique charms. Please understand the differences and charms of both, and then find the "one piece of your destiny" for you. That carpet will become a lifelong treasure that will increase in value over the years, as it ages and becomes filled with family memories.