Usak is a city in Turkey with a long-standing tradition of carpet production. For several centuries, the city has been known for manufacturing high-quality carpets. There are many different types of Usak carpets—already in the 17th century, more than ten variations were recorded. Many Usak carpets were originally made for use in mosques.
The designs and patterns of Usak carpets vary widely. Among the most famous is the “star pattern,” often used for large-format carpets. This design was likely influenced by Persian medallion carpets, as it typically features a large star-shaped medallion in the center. However, there are also Usak carpets whose medallions appear in more curvilinear shapes. The influence of Persian carpet traditions became increasingly evident in later centuries.
