Persian Rug vs Oriental Rug: What's the Difference?
Walk into a beautifully decorated home — a farmhouse with warm natural textures, a transitional space blending traditional and contemporary — and there's a good chance you'll find an Oushak rug on the floor. These Turkish rugs have become a favorite of interior designers worldwide for their soft color palette, elegant large-scale patterns, and extraordinary versatility. Here's everything you need to know.
What Is an Oushak Rug?
Oushak rugs (also spelled Ushak, Uşak, or Ghiordes) originate from the city of Ushak in western Turkey. The city has been producing rugs since at least the 15th century, when Oushak carpets were highly prized throughout Europe. Turkish miniature paintings and Renaissance-era European portraits frequently depict Oushak rugs draped over tables — a testament to their status and beauty.
Why Interior Designers Love Oushak Rugs
Unlike many Persian rugs that feature dark, formal color palettes, Oushak rugs are characterized by:
- Soft, muted tones — Ivory, warm gold, terracotta, sage green, antique rose, and soft blue
- Large-scale botanical patterns — Expansive floral medallions and sweeping arabesques that don't compete with the furniture
- Warmth and lightness — They bring light into a room rather than absorbing it
- Versatility — They work with traditional, transitional, farmhouse, coastal, and even modern décor
For designers, an Oushak rug is a "neutral that isn't boring" — it grounds a room and adds character without demanding attention.
Peshawar Rugs: Oushak's Sister
Peshawar rugs, woven in Pakistan, follow the Oushak design tradition but are produced by Afghan refugee weavers who brought their skills to Pakistan. They're typically woven with hand-spun, vegetable-dyed wool and have a slightly more rustic character than Turkish Oushaks. Many of the "Oushak" rugs sold today are actually Peshawar rugs — both are beautiful and authentic hand-knotted pieces.
Oushak Rug Prices
- Oushak/Peshawar (5x8 ft): $400-$2,000
- Oushak/Peshawar (8x10 ft): $1,200-$5,000
- Oushak/Peshawar (9x12 ft): $2,000-$8,000
- Antique/vintage Oushak: $3,000-$50,000+
Browse our complete collection of authentic Oushak and Peshawar rugs at BestRugPlace — free shipping and our price-match guarantee on every order.