What You Must Know About Moroccan Rugs

Morocco is a country well known for its fusion of African, Arab, and Jewish traditions. From the food to the architecture, customs to textiles, this country has perfected a distinct mix of cultures. One manifestation of this combination is the Moroccan rug. 

These rugs date back to the mid-nineteenth century and are an offshoot of Turkish rugs. A difference between them is Turkish rugs are elaborate, while Moroccan ones are geometric. Both, though, are synonymous with quality and beauty. Today let us take a closer look at these rugs.

 

Azilal rugs - single-knotted and intricate

Vintage Azilal rugs contain stories, literally--these wool rugs are sought-after as much for the narratives depicted on the patterns as they are for the pictures themselves. 

These rugs have bold colors and detailed patterns and are from the Atlas mountains. An Azilal carpet has a cream or white base woven with brightly tinted wool. Weavers extract the colors from flowers growing in the region.

Boujad rugs - warm hues and geometric shapes

A red, orange or pink Moroccan rug is most likely a Boujad variant. These rugs have the knotting technique practiced by the Berber tribes, but with a tighter knot. 

This method requires less wool, which allows for more intricate geometric patterns. As with Azilal rugs, weavers get the colors in Boujad rugs from flowers. They may also use berries and plants, such as henna. 

Beni Mguild - jewel-toned and reversible

These rugs are by the Beni Mguild tribe of the Middle Atlas region. They make their carpets on a vertical loom, and they often use shades of purple, red, blue, and brown. These rugs usually have a diamond-patterned body.

A Beni Mguild rug is reversible; one side is flat, while the other has a thicker pile. You can use the smooth side during warm months, and turn over the rug to use the other surface during cold weather.

Beni Ourain - light and minimalist

Scandinavian and minimalist-themed homes would use Beni Ourain rugs in focal points of the house. The tribe of the same name is responsible for this type of Moroccan rug. 

It is understated yet beautiful, with shades ranging from white to sandy cream. Each rug has soft black and brown geometric designs; the patterns are often mismatched and sometimes asymmetrical, adding to its rustic charm.

Boucherouite - bright and tactile

This type of rug is incredibly vibrant and textured. Boucherouite rugs are a riot of color, and they use scraps of fabric and old clothing. It is an adaptation to the lack of access to wool and is a beautiful example of sustainability.

Kilim - lightweight

In contrast to Boucherouite rugs, Kilim rugs are flat and light. These are also from the Berber tribes in the desert, so they are pile less and portable. Thin rugs are great for hot climates, and you can repurpose these into wall hangings or room dividers.

Conclusion

Moroccan rugs represent vibrant communities, recreated through gorgeous patterns and designs. Give your home a splash of color, buy these rugs, and learn a thing or two about global cultures.

Get high-quality rugs from Atlas Weavers. We are a premier supplier of authentic Moroccan rugs, and we aim to bring the rich Berber culture to the world. Browse our gallery or contact us today to learn more.