This is a Hereke Silk as denoted by the signature which says Hereke. The retail value is $200 to $250 per square foot in the US. This is in the more common end of quality not the exceptional end. Quick sale value is substantially reduced, perhaps 1/5th of retail or less, due mostly to the current economic situation.
To gain the greatest return it is always suggested that rugs are placed on consignment with the most reputable of rug dealers. To facilitate sale the asking price should be between 1/3rd and ½ of the current retail value. Be prepared to wait a couple years for it to sell if you want to maximize the profits. Visit
www.ORRAinc.com for reputable dealers in the US. ORRA members have a Code of Ethics and work towards keeping the industry free of unscrupulous activities.
As a side note, the value of Turkish Hereke Silks has fallen dramatically in recent years, more so in the lower knot counts which in the Hereke Silks is still very high compared to other rugs. This has happened because Chinese reproductions have undercut the Turkish originals since 2002. Ultimately the authenticate Hereke is an excellent buy at the moment but a hard sell as with so many things right now. Good luck and I hope this helps.
John Amatulli
Amatulli & Sons
www.RugAuthority.com