Vintage Tree of Life Prayer Rug | Hand-Knotted Turkish Wool, 6'8"x4'

This authentic Anatolian village rug is a classic prayer design with an ascending tree-of-life and protective ram’s-horn hooks, hand-knotted in soft camel, ivory and clay rose. The muted, sun-washed palette and folk drawing place it firmly in the eastern Turkish highland tradition—most likely the Kars/Erzurum area—where weavers favored camel and taupe grounds framed by stepped niches and stylized floral sprigs.

Woven by a skilled home weaver in the mid-20th century, the piece shows the hallmarks of genuine craftsmanship: a wool-on-wool foundation, symmetrical (Ghiordes) knotting, and lively abrash from hand-dyed yarns. The field’s prayer-niche layout symbolizes shelter and blessing, while the central “tree” motif represents growth and continuity—motifs long used across Anatolia for protection and good fortune. With its mellow neutrals and graphic geometry, it bridges traditional character and contemporary interiors with ease.

Features:

Dimensions: 204 × 122 cm (≈ 6'8" × 4'0")

Origin: Eastern Anatolia, Turkey (village work, likely Kars/Erzurum region)

Date: Vintage, c. 1950s–1960s

Materials: Hand-spun sheep’s wool pile on wool warp & weft; natural/early synthetic madder reds with walnut/camel browns, undyed ivory, and soft olive accents

Construction: Hand-knotted with symmetrical (Turkish/Ghiordes) knots; wool selvages and original fringe

Knot density: ~70 KPSI (≈110,000 knots/m²) – a durable village weave

Pile height: Low, ~4–6 mm with pleasing age polish

Design: Prayer-niche with ascending tree-of-life, latch-hook diamonds, ram’s-horns, and octagonal floral sprigs; reciprocal guard borders and meandering vine main border

Condition: Good vintage condition—even low pile from age, scattered abrash, minor age toning; ends secured and sides sound; no holes or structural issues

Use: Wide runner / small gallery rug ideal for entry, kitchen runner, office, reading nook, or layered living room styling

Craft & Cultural Notes:

The prayer niche (mihrab) layout evokes sanctuary and orientation; the tree-of-life rising through the field signifies longevity and renewal.

Ram’s-horn hooks speak to strength and protection in Anatolian tribal symbology.

The soft camel/ivory ground and naive floral cartouches are strong identifiers of eastern Anatolian village aesthetics, where undyed camel/brown tones and hand-dyed madder reds are traditional.

Care Instructions:

Vacuum gently with suction only (no beater bar).

Rotate seasonally for even wear and fade.

Blot spills immediately; spot clean with diluted wool-safe cleaner.

Use a quality rug pad to prevent slip and cushion the knots.

For deep cleaning, entrust to a professional hand-wash rug specialist.

Keep out of prolonged direct sunlight to preserve dyes.

Bring a piece of Anatolian heritage into your space—this vintage prayer rug’s calm neutrals, meaningful symbols, and tactile hand make it a timeless statement that harmonizes with modern, boho, wabi-sabi, and Scandinavian interiors alike.