Behind the Antiquities of Kilim and Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan rugs have continued to be one of the most coveted home decor. Their recognizable geometric patterns and high-quality texture make this carpet a staple. Over the years, there have been innovations and variations alike, but nothing can quite beat the classic.

The origins of the Moroccan rug were traced back to Berber weavers as early as the Paleolithic era. These rugs were used as a tool for warmth amid the harsh winters. However, their history can be a little richer than that, as are its implications. Here are some exciting things about vintage Moroccan rugs. 

Cultural Influences

Although Morocco is located in Africa, these rugs’ patterns can be traced back to Turkey’s influence. Turkish rugs or Anatolian rugs were made from high-quality materials and had a similar enough appearance. There were also many geometric patterns woven into the fabric, and the colors were also somewhat brighter. There were way more muted varieties, though.

Moroccan rugs’ tribal and nomadic style was still distinct when compared to the Turkish rug though, creating a distinct design that had withstood the test of time. They were side by side with other known rugs from the Persians and the Chinese.

When these sets of carpets entered the European market, many had grown to have an affinity for the Moroccan rug. This didn’t necessarily cause a cultural influence, but it did play a part in its demand in the Western market. 

Kilim Family

If you’ve looked into Moroccan rugs in the past, you may have seen Kilim in conjunction with that. Kilim is a Turkish word that essentially means pileless textile. A Moroccan Kilim rug celebrates the traditional North African tribal patterns and lively colors, but these carpets are flatly weaved. 

Moroccan Kilim rugs are visually appealing, but they appear to be more muted and have less definition to them. This hybrid’s distinction is still widely praised and uplifted by enthusiasts in the community for its intricacies. 

However, it may be a little different when it comes to the local scene. There are some in Kilim, Turkey who aren’t big fans of introducing Moroccan style to their looms. It certainly hasn’t slowed down production, though.

Symbolism

If you’ve ever had a lot of curiosity about the different lines and shapes you would see on a Moroccan rug, you’re not the only one! There have been tons of historians, rug experts, and cultural designers who have been trying to study the appeal behind the dynamic design and vibrancy of a classic Moroccan rug. 

Interestingly, some masculine subtexts were derived from the geometric zig zags and lines present in the Moroccan rugs. Feminine subtexts were also present in the bright diamonds that were woven into the carpet. 

This indicated that the Moroccan rug had symbolized the union of men and women together. Some believe this is parental when welcoming a child into this world, while others think these also referred to their partnership as lovers. 

Conclusion

Moroccan rugs have such a rich variety and alluring factor, and learning more about them just makes it that much more appreciable. You could probably subtly gift this to a partner of yours, and they’d never even realize that it was a declaration of love. 

Atlas Weavers is a fair trade artisan project and supplier of authentic, high-quality Moroccan rugs worldwide. Order one today!