“Moroccan Rug” is a broad term encompassing a variety of rug types, each with unique weaving techniques that vary across tribes, regions, and villages. Since the weaving craft is taught by elders, the style of each tribe or region often reflects the climate, needs, and customs of that particular community. Artisans in the snowy Atlas Mountains specialize in thicker rugs than the artisans who reside in the desert, for example. This variation continues throughout every weave choice-from the animals, the wools are harvested from and the dye ingredients available to the local symbols and traditions.
Moroccan rugs have a long history and cultural significance. They are more than just decor. Handmade by skilled artisans, these rugs carry the essence of tradition, creativity, and craftsmanship.
In this ultimate guide, we will delve into the world of Moroccan rugs, covering everything from cleaning and pricing to the different types available and how to assess their authenticity and quality. This article will explore what makes Moroccan rugs so special.
Moroccan rugs have been made for centuries by the Berber tribes of North Africa. The Berbers, native to Morocco, are known for their weaving traditions. The designs of these rugs are not only beautiful but also meaningful. Each pattern tells a story or conveys a message that has been passed down through generations.
Historically, Moroccan rugs were used for practical purposes. Berber tribes used them for warmth during cold winters and as floor coverings for their homes.
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Moroccan rugs are unique because of their handmade craftsmanship, bold designs, and cultural significance. Moroccan rugs are more than just floor coverings; they are pieces of art that bring warmth, character, and history to your home. If you're looking to add a unique touch to your home, consider investing in a Moroccan rug.
Moroccan rugs and carpets embody centuries of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. While both feature vibrant colors and intricate geometric patterns, they differ in size and complexity. Moroccan rugs, typically smaller in size, serve versatile purposes as floor coverings, wall hangings, or even cozy blankets. On the other hand, Moroccan carpets are grandiose floor coverings, often adorning entire rooms with their elaborate designs.
Major Styles of Moroccan Rugs
Here’s our guide to the major styles of Moroccan rug types.
Flatweave
Flatweave rugs are thin, soft, strong, and full of symbolism. They’re also called “hanbel” or “aknif” in Arabic.
Intricate Hanbel
This style is thought to originate from the area in and around the Village of Tazenakht, a region rich with weaving history. While the majority of this weave is flat, the design accents are either embroidered or have a slightly higher pile, giving this piece texture and dimension.
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Every design element comes entirely from the artisan’s imagination. The design elements within this technique tend to depict an array of symbolism in the Amazigh culture.
Kilim
The Kilim style originates from the Middle Atlas Mountain region. These rugs carry symbolism unique to the indigenous tribes weaving them.
Many Kilim designs are interpretations of a popular window dressing in Moroccan homes. The window dressings are made from intricate latticework and stained glass surrounding oriel (or bay-style) windows. The result is a beautifully ornate exterior that creates shade and privacy while allowing natural light to enter the home. Some Kilim weaves mimic this style with intricate geometric patterns.
Zanafi
The Zanafi weaving technique comes from the High Atlas Mountains. This technique requires the highest level of skill and concentration. Each row is created with an intricate system of counting. This style is extra special because it's reversible; on each side, the colors of the symbols are inverted.
The Zanafi rug is also known for its side tassels but can be woven without them on request.
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While the more traditional Zanafis are made in the Southeast, there is a Zanafi technique that has been interpreted by the weavers of the Middle Atlas Mountains in the North. The big difference with this interpretation is that they are not reversible. They also don’t have side tassels.
Zemmour Hanbel
Originating in the Middle Atlas mountains, Zemmour Hanbel rugs are made with the thinnest of sheep's wool yarn. This labyrinth-like weaving technique requires acute focus and skill.
As with other intricate weave styles, each symbol in the Zemmour Hanbel design is created with a meticulous system of counting. You’ll always find something new to admire in these detailed pieces.
Kharita/Tazenakht
This rug style has a few different names: Golden Fingers, Kharita ("map" in Arabic) or Tazenakht. This complex weaving technique is usually made by the senior members of the village. The design consists of a maze of geometric shapes that are reflected on both sides, making the weaves reversible.
These flatweaves are also incredibly strong and will withstand the test of time.
Boucherouite
Pronounced boo-shay-reet, these lively pieces are made from yarn, recycled clothing, or even textile scraps, giving them a lush, high pile.
Boucherouite rugs are often used in weavers’ own homes.
Handira
Known to Westerners as wedding blankets, Handiras are usually made by a bride’s female relatives or the women of her village. Traditionally, brides wore the blankets as capes on their way to the wedding but these days, they’re used to wrap gifts for the newlyweds. The blankets are a symbolic blessing for the marriage, and after the wedding, they’re often passed on to other couples to continue to share the blessings and joy.
Medium to High Hand-Knot
There are many rug styles that can be classified with the medium to high hand-knot category - like the Boujad, Azilal, Beni Ourain, Beni M'rirt, and Marmoucha styles to name a few. The majority of these rugs come from the Middle Atlas and High Atlas Mountains. The local sheep in these colder climates have a thicker coat to sustain them during the winter months, which impacts the thickness of the wool, and in turn, contributes to the height of the pile.
Low Hand-Knot
The low hand-knot style of rug most often comes from the Southeastern tribes in and around the Siroua region. The pile of these rugs is much shorter than the hand-knot rugs from the north. One significant difference in technique with these rugs is that the artisans usually pre-cut the wool prior to weaving on the loom, while the women in the north cut the wool after looping it around the loom.
Mixed Technique
Mixed weaving techniques are a modern development, where artisans will bring multiple techniques together in one weave. The combinations could be endless, either combining two techniques such as Zanafi and hand-knot, or three techniques, like hand-knot, flatweave, and Zanafi. These rugs usually showcase quite modern designs.
Glaoui
The Glaoui technique is named after the Glaoua (Glawa) tribe of Southern Morocco. Glaoui is an extremely technical weave as it incorporates three techniques: Hand-weaving, Hand-knotting, and Hand-embroidery.
Vintage
Vintage rugs can come in any style. Our Vintage pieces were usually made by grandmas or great-aunts and then passed down through generations. Most vintage rugs you will find in local Moroccan markets are purchased by traveling brokers, who visit neighboring villages and buy up all the pieces they can in one transaction. Our process is different, as we work directly with the women selling these heirloom pieces. We visit their homes and neighborhoods to see the pieces in person and negotiate face-to-face.
Tuareg Mats
Tuareg Mats are woven by the Taureg tribe. They’re often mistakenly referred to as “Moroccan.” While the Tuareg tribe is part of the Amazigh nation, it stretches across many countries, including parts of Mali, Mauritania, and Burkina Faso to name a few. Tuareg mats are both extremely lightweight and durable, making them great for both floors and wall hanging.
The base of a Tuareg mat is reed sourced from the Senegal River. The decorative motifs are woven into the reeds with strips of goat and camel leather. While the leather is usually kept natural, some tribes are known to dye their leather with local plants and spices to derive vibrant red and green hues.
Each mat is one-of-a-kind and tells a unique story from the artisan.
MOROCCAN RUGS DESIGN TUTORIAL
Types of Moroccan Rugs
There are many types of Moroccan rugs that vary in size, shape, color, style, material, and origin.
- Beni Ourain rugs: These are the most popular type of Moroccan rugs, made by the Berber tribes in the Atlas Mountains.
- Boucherouite rugs: These are colorful and eclectic rugs made from recycled materials such as fabric scraps, wool, cotton, nylon, etc.
- Azilal rugs: These are similar to Beni Ourain rugs but with more colors and patterns. They are made by the Berber tribes in the Azilal region of the Atlas Mountains.
- Beni Mguild rugs: These are thick and heavy rugs made by the Berber tribes in the Middle Atlas Mountains.
- Zemmour rugs: These are flat-weave rugs made by the Arab tribes in the Zemmour region of Morocco.
- Kilim rugs: These are flat-weave rugs that have no pile or knots. They are made by various ethnic groups in Morocco and other countries in the Middle East and Central Asia.
- Zanafi rugs: These are also flat-weave rugs but with more texture and dimension. They are made by the Zanafi tribe in the High Atlas Mountains.
Materials Used in Moroccan Rugs
Most Moroccan rugs are made from natural fibers like wool.
- Wool: Wool is known for its long-lasting nature, and it naturally helps insulate the home.
- Cotton: Cotton rugs are lightweight and easy to clean.
- Jute: Jute rugs have a more rustic feel. They are made from plant fibers and are eco-friendly.
- Synthetic Materials: While less authentic, some Moroccan-style rugs are made from synthetic fibers like polyester.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Moroccan Rugs
Proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to preserve the beauty and longevity of Moroccan rugs. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Regularly vacuum your rug to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Blot spills immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Use hair conditioner when cleaning carpets. Pre-mix it with water and splash the mixture over the wet rug. Then, use an upside-down bowl to rub the carpet back and forth. This technique creates suction under the bowl, effectively removing dirt.
- Consider professional cleaning for deep cleaning, stain removal, and specialized care.
- Rotate your rug periodically to distribute wear evenly and remove dirt. This method is commonly referred to as "summer face" and "winter face" rotation. Turning the carpet like this helps remove a lot of dirt and dust.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners that may damage the fibers.
Regular Cleaning: Vacuum your rug regularly to remove dust and dirt.
Spot Cleaning: If a spill occurs, clean it immediately with a damp cloth.
Taking care of your Moroccan rug ensures it will last for generations.
By following these cleaning and maintenance practices, you can ensure the longevity and beauty of your Moroccan rugs.
Pricing Factors for Moroccan Rugs
The price of a Moroccan rug can vary significantly based on several factors.
Material and Craftsmanship
The type of material used and the level of craftsmanship play a significant role in determining the price of Moroccan rugs. High-quality rugs are often made from natural fibers such as wool, which is known for its durability and luxurious texture.
Size and Design Complexity
The size of the rug and the complexity of its design are important pricing factors. Larger rugs generally command higher prices due to the increased amount of materials and time required to create them.
Age and Condition
The age and condition of a Moroccan rug can significantly impact its price. Antique rugs, which have stood the test of time and carry historical value, tend to be more expensive. Rugs in excellent condition, with minimal signs of wear or damage, are also highly sought after and may come with a higher price tag.
Moroccan rugs can range in price depending on the size, material, and craftsmanship.
Authenticity and Quality of Moroccan Rugs
When purchasing a Moroccan rug, it's important to ensure its authenticity and quality. Here are some key aspects to consider:
- Look for handmade rugs crafted by skilled Moroccan artisans.
- Examine the weaving technique and the consistency of the knots.
- Authentic Moroccan rugs often have imperfections and slight irregularities, which add to their charm and authenticity.
- Consider buying from reputable sellers or certified dealers who specialize in Moroccan rugs.
Look for signs of handmade craftsmanship, such as slight imperfections and variations in the design.
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