Istanbul artisan revives centuries-old carpets from palaces, sacred sites
In a small workshop in Istanbul’s historic carpet market, master restorer Ahmet Bayrakdar has spent nearly four decades bringing centuries-old carpets back to life, repairing rare pieces from royal collections and historic sites around the world while preserving their original craftsmanship.
Working from the Carpet Dealers’ Bazaar in Istanbul’s Fatih district, Bayrakdar restores antique handwoven carpets using traditional techniques, receiving orders from both Türkiye and abroad.
Bayrakdar told the Turkish state-run Anadolu Agency that he began his career as an apprentice in 1987 after arriving in Istanbul from Aksaray for what was initially meant to be a short visit. He later took over the workshop where he trained and specialized in restoring antique silk carpets.
Over the years, he has repaired carpets belonging to royal families and private collectors from different countries.
