Learn About Moroccan Berber Carpet-Weaving Traditions

International acclaim for Moroccan carpets. Modern businesses, cafes, and homes in the West all have the finely woven Berber rugs.  From Morocco, you may choose from a huge variety of traditional patterns and hues. The Middle Atlas region between Khenifra and Taza is where you can discover the numerous varieties of carpets, and this region is also where the Beni Ourain carpet, one of the most well-known in the West, originates. It is normally made of sheep's wool. Because these tribes are so close together, the Arabic word beni, which means "son of," can also refer to a person, group of people, or family.

Styles

Traditional Berber carpets are made of camel or sheep wool and have distinctive designs and hues (you can also find them made from nylon and olefin material). The fabrics are hand-washed and naturally coloured with pomegranate and henna, ranging from saffron yellow to wild mint green. These carpets have been traced back to the Merinid era and are notable for their bold geometric patterns. In the Middle Atlas, carpets typically have a classic diamond pattern.

Climate

To adapt to various conditions, Moroccan Berber tribes created a range of weaves. While carpets in urban areas are of a finer weave, those in Morocco's mountain regions have wider loops and are more loosely tied to protect against the cold. Middle Atlas carpets from Morocco are used as sleeping mats, however in milder regions, knots are often 2 cm high.

History

Berber weaving is typically passed down inside the home and is heavily reliant on female culture. The young apprentice is required to master the various looping patterns, techniques, color palettes, and themes. Traditionally, males manufactured carpets that were more specialized as professional master weavers, while women traditionally produced carpets for their households. These creative designs served as the inspiration for more recent carpet manufacturing.

Carpets were historically the favored present to give to those in the upper social classes in the Imperial Cities of Morocco and in many emerging nations. They were also used to embellish palaces and other religious areas. The more modern carpets have also been utilized as hammam rugs and prayer mats. Visitors who want to view a demonstration of Berber carpet weaving can go to a Moroccan Weavers Cooperative, or they can take a private tour of Morocco to visit Berber villages and observe the weaving process firsthand.

Museums like the Dar Batha Museum have several historic Berber rugs from Morocco that are still intact. The souks of Fes, Marrakech, and Rabat all sell these complex rugs.

Art style

The vivid hues, intricate designs, and weaving methods used in various locations each have their own distinctive flair. Each tribe has its own pattern that will frequently tell a tale, exposing ritual activities or designs that frequently have to do with fertility and protection. Like any other abstract form of art, interpretations are enhanced by a deeper familiarity with the folklore, melodies, and traditions.