All You Need To Know About Authentic Moroccan Rugs

Authentic Moroccan rugs, just like the history of the region, are rich in culture, history and traditions. Moroccan people have used these rugs, handwoven with silk, wool, or even scraped or recycled fiber, since as early as the 16th century. The rugs feature unique and intricate patterns and designs. Although, the Beni Ourain rugs are their most famous ones, each and every tribe has its own kind of rugs. These authentic Moroccan rugs evolved in a manner similar to the evolution of their tribes. The rugs took the names of their tribes and told the story they wanted to tell. If you want to hear stories but wrapped up in authentic Moroccan rugs, keep reading for more! 

Moroccan Rugs History

Weaving has been an age-old occupation in Morocco, a country bathed in rich history and a pot of different cultures. This skillful job has played an important role in Moroccan heritage, with artisans creating countless beautiful and functional materials, especially rugs. Moroccan artisans craft decorative rugs, which people use personally and also export. Its uniqueness, especially regarding intricate designs and unique patterns, makes these rugs very appealing and highly durable.

The Art of Moroccan Rug Weaving

Artisans handcraft Moroccan rugs using either hand-knotting or weaving techniques, passing these skills down through generations. These rugs are famous for their stylish designs, plush texture, and long-lasting quality. Most of the traders claim that Moroccan rugs can last forever, and as per their craftsmanship, this statement is true.

People mainly use Moroccan rugs in offices and homes for decoration, valuing their functionality and artistic design for interior décor. Most of the rugs adopted by Moroccan rugs are very modern and have geometric elements in them, and they also adapt to trends that keep changing. Because of these reasons, they appeal to both interior designers and homeowners.

Traditionally the use of Moroccan rugs extends beyond the home décor and it has other functions like bed covers, mats, saddle blankets, burial shrouds, and even personal adornment.

Tradition Handed Down Through Generations

Moroccans have long practiced the weaving tradition, passing it down through many generations. The main weavers of these rugs are women, living in the plains and mountains. They weave these rugs in a specific pattern that represents their origin of tribe. Each Moroccan rug tells a story and the weaver’s background, social status, wealth, or religious belief. 

All the operations used in making these Moroccan rugs are done by hand from wool shearing and its treatment to dyeing, using natural materials. Mainly they use black sheep wool, white bleached wool, and bright-colored ones that have mineral and plant origin. Thus you will see deep red shades, and earth color shades that prevail in the area of high-altitude mountains from ocher.

Symbolism in Moroccan Rug Designs

Moroccan rugs usually have symbols and motifs that are thought to have mystic powers. Many weavers add patterns to their weaving designs and they use them to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. The most common motif you will find is Fatima’s hand which is woven in different geometric styles and it is believed it provide protection.

Even the weaving combs, scissors, and knives used in weaving hold spiritual significance. The loom used is also a very sacred object, a host for divine presence and wisdom that is passed onto the artisan through the act of weaving.

Types of Moroccan Rugs:

Beni Ourain Rugs: Rif Mountains near Taza

The King of all rugs, or the Beni ourain rugs are the most traditional part of the Moroccan culture. They are handmade and dyed with natural dyes. These rugs originated in the 17^th century but were able to withstand the ordeal of time and adorn the houses of the Amazigh tribe to date. Handwoven in a knotted pattern, the rugs feature distinct symbols like abstract geometric designs or all the symbols linked to the tribe. The rugs usually feature a dichromate pattern mainly using black and white colors. The high quality of Beni Ourain rugs makes them one of the top Moroccan rug styles. Due to their thick and chic nature, they can be used for any kind of flooring. They also go well with minimalistic as well as classical home décor.

Azilal Moroccan Rugs: Beni Mellal-Khenifra

Traditional Moroccan Azilal rugs combine the art of storytelling with the art of rug weaving. They are unique because the rural area uses them as a means of expressing their story making each piece individual and unique.

They also stand out because of their bright colors. The colors are unique as they also give a hint of shimmer in them. The rugs, made of wool, though unique in their designs and patterns, also feature different colors in different seasons making them one of a kind from Azilal in Talda of Beni Mellal.

Boucherouite Moroccan Rug: Near Beni Mellal

The most sustainable choice in authentic Moroccan rugs will always be Boucherouite Rugs. Families who cannot afford wool make the rugs with a special knot using recycled and used fabrics, creating an affordable option for all.

What makes these rugs stand out is not only their sustainability and less impact on climate but also their intricate patterns and rich colors. They, in this manner stand out from the rest of authentic Moroccan rugs making them a must have.

Kilim Moroccan Rugs: The Middle Atlas Mountains

The rugs which are the most suitable for milder and much hotter climates are the Kilim Moroccan rugs. Kilim, literally meaning carpet are not velvety instead they are made of wool or silk in an embroidered fashion.

The Zemmour and Boujaad region of Atlas creates these unique rugs, not only because of the materials they use but also because of their intricately carved patterns and bright colors.

Experience authenticity through our authentic Moroccan rugs.

Conclusion:

If you want to decorate your home with these authentic Moroccan rugs, just like the last missing piece of a puzzle, our local artisans have carefully crafted them as part of our collection of traditional Moroccan rugs. They can also customize each piece to match your preferences. Your support and direct purchase will enable the artisans to continue producing world-class rugs.

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