Pristine VTG Kayseri 1965 Art Silk TURKISH KAYSERI Mihrab Handknotted 3'x5' RUG For Sale

This beautiful, vintage 1965 Kayseri Art Silk Turkish Prayer Rug is in excellent condition. Current owner accompanied parents to old Ankara area of Ulus and witnessed purchase. Has only been displayed on walls. No fading, no wear, no damage.
Reverse side of rug indicated by a blue asterisk*See photos. (Note: do not mistake photo shadows for discoloration).
Size: 34" wide x 62" long (including fringe)

This piece is a classic hand-knotted Turkish prayer rug (seccade), specifically showing design traits typical of the Kayseri regionof Central Anatolia. Purchased in1965 Ankara, it fits perfectly as a mid-20th-century vintage textile sourced or purchased in the Turkish capital.

Rugs of this caliber from the mid-20th century were often crafted on a cotton foundation with "art silk" (mercerized cotton) to give a shimmering finish. Because it is a delicate prayer rug with fine detail, displaying it safely as a wall hangingis an excellent way to preserve the fringe and pile from foot-traffic wear.

Design & Iconography

• The Mihrab (Prayer Niche): The central cream-colored field forms a pointed arch at the top. This symbolizes the mihrab, the niche in a mosque wall that indicates the direction of Mecca (qibla).
• Twin Pillars: The central field is flanked by two stylized columns or pillars. This motif represents architectural columns found in historic Ottoman mosques.
• Hanging Ewers / Pitchers: At the bottom of the niche, you can see two hanging vessel designs (ibrikor ewers). While many prayer rugs feature a hanging lantern or lamp at the top, this rug uniquely highlights ritual purification vessels at the base.
• Floral Spandrels: The area above the arch (the spandrels) features a deep teal blue field adorned with mirrored geometric floral patterns.
• Segmented Border: The prominent wide border consists of alternating rectangular cartouches containing distinct geometric rosettes and starbursts, characteristic of regional Turkish weaving traditions.

From a smoke-free and pet-free home.