Orient Handmade Carpets

For over five generations the Sefer family of Istanbul has been involved in all aspects of the oriental carpet business. The family is descended from nomads who lived in central Anatolia. The name Seferoglu was shortened to Sefer in the early 20th century. Seferoglu translates to "son of a traveler" and emphasized the importance this family placed on being identified as nomads. By the 1880's the great great grandfather and great grandfather were transporting carpets and wheat to Istanbul in camel caravans to be bartered for shoes and other goods available in the city. Their caravan was never actually allowed to enter the city proper. The Ottoman government had strict control over who came into the city and merchant caravans were set-up in Eyup just outside the ancient city walls. This was a family of carpet dealers starting with the great great grandfather Hilmi and succeeded by the great grandfather Mustafa Sefer, grandfather Recep, father Zeki and son Recep. The Sefer family have witnessed the weaving traditions of Anatolia for well over a century. Each generation passed along the passion and technical expertise that developed into a refined understanding of the importance of the carpet. Orient exists to support local artisans and showcase their weaving art. Orient has played a fundamental role in sustaining weaving art.