Hereke Silk
Hereke Silk rugs come from the Ottoman court manufactory and are among the world’s most prized silk carpets.
Profile
- Manufacturing
- Hand-knotted
- Origin
- Turkey — Hereke, Kocaeli Province
- Pile material
- Silk on silk
- Knot density
- 800,000 – 2,000.000 knots/m²
- Features
- Pure silk, court-quality knotting, elegant designs
Photo: Morgenland Rugs
Origin
Hereke silk rugs come from the Turkish town of Hereke on the Sea of Marmara, about 60 kilometres east of Istanbul. Rug production began there in 1843 at the initiative of Sultan Abdülmecid I, who commissioned an imperial manufactory. Initially it was intended to produce exclusively for the Ottoman palaces. The workshops of Hereke quickly became the most renowned in Turkey and earned international recognition for their exceptional quality.
Characteristics
Hereke silk rugs are distinguished by their extraordinarily high knot density, often between 1,000,000 and 4,000,000 knots per square metre. The patterns are mostly floral with medallions, palmettes, and arabesque ornaments. Figurative depictions, hunting scenes, or portraits of famous figures also appear frequently. The palette spans warm tones such as red, gold, blue, and ivory. A characteristic feature is the precise execution of the smallest details, made possible by the fineness of silk.
Material and technique
Hereke silk rugs are knotted exclusively from high-quality natural silk — used for warp, weft, and pile. The silk traditionally comes from the Bursa region. The Senneh knot (asymmetrical) is used. The pile is sheared very low, which lets the fine pattern detail come through to best effect. The looms are vertical and allow precise work. A single mid-sized rug can require several years of work depending on knot density.
Worth knowing
In its heyday the imperial manufactory in Hereke employed over 4,000 workers. After the end of the Ottoman Empire production was privatised but retained its high quality standards. Hereke silk rugs are collector pieces today and command record prices at auction. The town runs a quality mark that confirms the rugs' authenticity. Many Hereke rugs bear the signature of the knotter, which is unusual among Turkish rugs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I recognise an authentic Hereke silk rug?
Authentic Hereke silk rugs have an extremely high knot density, a silken sheen, and often a maker's signature. The back shows the pattern very clearly. Authentic pieces are usually sold with certificates.
Why are Hereke silk rugs so expensive?
The high price stems from the exceptional knot density, the use of the finest silk, the years-long production time, and the limited output of the few authentic workshops.
How do I care for a Hereke silk rug?
Silk rugs are delicate and should only be cleaned by specialists. Direct sunlight should be avoided since it can fade the silk. Regular gentle vacuuming on a low setting is sufficient.
Are there Hereke rugs in wool too?
Yes — alongside the famous Hereke silk rugs, the region also produces high-quality wool rugs which are likewise highly valued, but priced below the silk versions.
Impressions of the origin
Places, landscapes and landmarks around the home of Hereke Silk rugs. Click any image for a larger view.
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