Berber rug weaving, a centuries-old craft rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of North Africa, stands as a testament to the enduring artistry and skill of the Berber people. In this blog, we delve into the captivating world of Berber rug weaving, exploring its history, unique techniques, and the cultural significance woven into every intricate pattern.
History of Berber Rug Weaving: Dating back thousands of years, Berber rug weaving has been an integral part of the Berber identity. Originating from the indigenous Berber tribes of North Africa, particularly in regions like Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, these rugs have been handcrafted by skilled artisans for both practical and symbolic purposes.
The tradition has been passed down through generations, preserving the authenticity of the craft.
Materials and Techniques: One of the distinctive features of Berber rugs is the use of high-quality, natural materials. Artisans traditionally employ wool from local sheep, prized for its durability and soft texture. The weaving process involves intricate knotting techniques, with each rug telling a unique story through its patterns and symbols. The weavers often draw inspiration from nature, daily life, and spiritual beliefs, resulting in a wide array of designs that vary across different Berber communities Symbolism and Cultural Significance.
Berber rugs are not merely decorative pieces; they are repositories of cultural heritage and symbolism. The geometric patterns, symbols, and colors used in the rugs often convey meanings tied to Berber traditions, beliefs, and rituals. Some rugs tell stories of protection, fertility, or the interconnectedness of life. Each knot in the rug serves as a thread connecting the weaver to their ancestors, creating a tangible link to the past.
Modern Adaptations and Global Appeal: While Berber rug weaving has deep roots in tradition, contemporary designers and artisans have embraced the craft, infusing it with new life and global appeal. The minimalist aesthetic and neutral color palette of Berber rugs have found a place in modern interior design, transcending cultural boundaries. As a result, Berber rugs have become sought-after pieces, admired for their craftsmanship, authenticity, and timeless beauty.
Preserving a Time-Honoured Tradition:
Despite the increasing demand for Berber rugs in the global market, there is a growing awareness of the need to preserve the authenticity of the craft. Efforts are being made to support local artisans, promote sustainable practices, and ensure that the traditional methods of Berber rug weaving continue to thrive. This commitment to preserving a time-honoured tradition not only sustains the livelihoods of Berber weavers but also safeguards a unique cultural legacy for future generations.
Berber rug weaving is more than just a craft; it is a celebration of cultural identity, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the Berber people. As these timeless rugs continue to weave their stories into the fabric of our homes and design spaces, they serve as a reminder of the rich heritage encapsulated in every knot and pattern.
Morocco is a country with a rich history and vibrant culture. From the bustling markets to the serene coastlines, there's something for everyone in this North African country. If you're interested in design, art, and culture, then this is the trip for you!
We'll start our journey in the bustling city of Marrakech, where we'll explore the winding alleys of the medina and visit the beautiful Bahia Palace. We'll also have the opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs and handicrafts in the vibrant markets.
Next, we'll head to Essaouira, a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Here, we'll visit the workshops of local artisans, including woodworkers and ceramicists. We'll also have plenty of time to explore the town's beautiful architecture and vibrant art scene.
Our next stop will be the beautiful Ourika Valley, where we'll take in the stunning natural scenery and visit the local Berber communities. We'll also have the opportunity to learn about traditional Berber crafts, including weaving and pottery.
From there, we'll head to the Agafay Desert, a beautiful and secluded area just outside of Marrakech. Here, we'll enjoy a peaceful night under the stars in a luxury desert camp, surrounded by beautiful sand dunes and the quiet stillness of the desert.
Throughout our journey, we'll be accompanied by local experts who will help us explore the unique and fascinating culture of Morocco. We'll also have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, whether we're lounging on the beach in Essaouira or exploring the stunning landscapes of the Ourika Valley.
If you're interested in joining me on this unforgettable journey through Morocco's design, art, and culture, then I invite you to get in touch. I can't wait to share this beautiful country with you!
]]>One of the most well-known and recognizable patterns is the classic Beni Ourain, characterized by its minimalist design and lush natural wool. These rugs can suit any home decor style, whether it's Scandinavian, Boho, modern, contemporary, or even beachy. The distinctive diamonds and intricate designs made by chocolate or black wool add an extra level of detail and interest to the rugs.
Each rug is a piece of art, handcrafted by Berber weavers who infuse their cultural heritage into every knot. The weavers pay close attention to every little detail, creating a rug that is both visually stunning and full of meaning. Owning a Moroccan rug means acquiring a beautiful piece of art for your home and a timeless slice of Berber history.
Vintage Moroccan rugs, in particular, are highly desirable as they are small pieces of art that increase in value over time. However, finding vintage rugs in great condition can be challenging. The 17 tribes that make up the Beni Ourain are the source of the highest-grade wool. The sheep's wool is a high commodity as it is the main source of heat during winter months and textiles made from it, like Moroccan rugs, were originally used as thick, lush blankets and wall coverings to keep homes warm.
Each tribe has its distinctive style, which allows for easy recognition of the rug's origin. For instance, Beni Mguild and Boujaad regions comprise several tribes, while Taznakht, Marmoucha, and Boucherouites rugs are made from recycled fabric, cotton, and wool, and always colorful. These rugs are perfect for children's rooms as they are machine washable.
The Berber women continue the tradition of crafting these rugs using centuries-old techniques. The wool is spun and hand-knotted to create rugs characterized by their firm structure and durability. Moroccan rugs are timeless, and they have years of history behind them, yet they remain at the forefront of the world's favorite interior design elements with desired quality.
Moroccan rug is a great investment that adds warmth, character, and culture to any space. With its timeless design and durability, it's a piece of art that you will cherish for years to come.
]]>The “Red City” welcomes visitors and traders to Africa’s busiest square with open arms. Jemaa el-Fnaa, “The Assembly of trespassers ”. It is this juxtaposition that makes Morocco’s fourth largest city just so charming.
Perhaps it is lost in translation, but there are no trespassers found here. Just a beautiful melting pot of traders from the surrounding deserts and Atlas mountains. You will find snake charmers, acrobats, mystics and musicians. Peddling their skills alongside herb sellers, rug merchants, leather craftsmen and lantern makers. No market place would be complete without the occasional haggling exchange.
Marrakech’s souk is where I have spent many hours searching stacks of Berber vintage rugs for the perfect one. You lose all sense of time in the mazes of stalls and alleyways. Suddenly the market takes on a different feel as the sun sets and eateries emerge. The streets become lively with locals and tourists alike sharing dinner and tea. If you find yourself in Marrakech and decide to skip out on the market experience for fear of the crowds, you are doing yourself a disservice. Even if you don’t buy anything, a visit alongside Jemaa el-Fnaa is a must.
After the hustle and bustle of the souk, you will need a place to put your feet up. The Majorelle Garden is an oasis in the city. Fountains and streams are shaded by palms and surrounded by vibrant mosaics. Home to many tropical plants, traditional architecture and a Berber Museum, it almost became a hotel, but was saved by Yves Saint Larent. You can relax and be inspired in the same place as the fashion icon.
Marrakech is home to seemingly countless mosques dotted throughout the city. The mosques are closed to non-Muslims. But that shouldn’t stop you admiring their beauty and grace. Many of the Mosques have a lengthy history, elaborate stucco and easily identifiable zellij or mosaic. The Kasbah Mosque is home to the Saadian Tombs where non Muslims are permitted to enter. The Saadian Tombs’ rediscovery reminds me of Morocco itself on the tourist trail. Sealed and hidden in 1659, they were uncovered in 1917. The final resting place of a murdered sultan, his son spared no expense importing Italian Carrara Marble, and using orantate gilding on the two magnificent mausoleums.
After a day of exploring, finding your way back to your Riad is another adventure in itself!
“I got lost in Marrakech” is a thing.
A riad offers a traditional place to stay. Riad means garden. Similar to the patios of Spanish houses, a riad is built around a central courtyard garden. There is an abundance to be found near the medina, ranging in price and included luxuries with many offering breakfast.
Moroccan rugs or Berber carpets, as they are also known, are enjoying a revival. It is clear to see why. They are amazing! But before you invest, and yes they are an investment, you might want a few more reasons as to why you need a Moroccan rug underneath your feet.
Moroccan rugs are entwined with the Berber culture. Originally made to protect the tribespeople from the elements, they vary in design and pile length. Each symbol and motif is carefully chosen to represent the tribe and mood of the weaver. The rugs from the snow capped Atlas Mountains, like the Beni Ourain, have a long pile to protect against the harsh winters. Whilst the rugs from the tribes of the middle Atlas Mountains, like the Beni Mguild, have a flatter pile. Each rug reflects the stories of the tribe and individual skills and experiences of the Berber weaver. Being hand-woven, worked on throughout the year and woven by a few different Berber artisans, an authentic Moroccan rug has beautiful imperfections. No two rugs are the same.
Unlike other commercially produced floor rugs, Moroccan rugs are not mass produced. Vintage Moroccan Rugs can be anywhere from 20 to 60 years old. Some are younger, some even older. When you buy a vintage rug, it already exists and has proven its durability. You prevent the rug from becoming discarded and ultimately landfill. You are being kind to the environment by not encouraging the creation of something new, often with environmentally damaging synthetic dyes and fibers. Berber weavers use wool from their flock of sheep, dye the wool using locally sourced, naturally occurring dyes and weave it by hand. Additionally, when you buy a Moroccan rug, you are preserving the Berber culture. You are encouraging Berber tribespeople to continue with their traditional way of life and pass on their culture to the next generation.
Moroccan Rugs come in a variety of sizes. Add some colour to a drab corridor with a hallway runner. Have a comfy place to stand, contemplate the meaning of life and do the dishes, all at the same time. Need a smaller rug for a kid’s bedroom? One to bring warmth to the living room? A huge rug under the 12 seater table in the boardroom at work? Moroccan rugs come in all sizes to slide seamlessly into your decor.
Each Moroccan rug is handmade by Berber artisans. Each tribe has different motives, symbols, colours and designs that they incorporate into their rugs. This means you are buying a unique, handmade piece of art. Berber rug weavers use a technique that is essentially unchanged by the passage of time. For the Berbers, weaving a rug is a social and practical art that can take more than a year to complete. Each rug is honoured by the skills of its weavers who bestow upon it some beautiful imperfections. Some people may shy away from handmade pieces that celebrate imperfections. These imperfections do not change the integrity of the rug, rather they add to it. The quality of handmade Moroccan rugs is such that if you were to grab a handful of the fibers, you would be able to lift the heavy rug. Rest assured that when you invest in an authentic Berber rug you are buying quality that can only be attained through generations.
It is not often you can claim versatility in a piece of soft furnishing. Moroccan rugs are firstly floor rugs to be felt by your feet and loved. They can be the hero of the room on their own. Or Moroccan rugs provide interest as they are layered over other floor coverings of varying weaves and colours. But if you are lucky enough to find an especially old vintage rug that is worn in all the right places, or one that is just too beautiful to be stood on, why not hang it on the wall! Moroccan rugs double as a literal piece of art. Berber carpets are equally at home adorning your wall or covering your floor.
A Moroccan rug on your floor will instantly tie all the elements of your room together.
Add a point of interest to your dining room by placing a rug under the table. Add a splash of colour to your monochrome kitchen with a smaller, brightly coloured rug like a Boujaad. The shades of black and white in a Beni Ourain can tone down your bright sofa colour or your experimental feature wall. Equally, a brightly coloured eccentric Berber carpet can bring life to your lounge room.
Originally designed to protect against the elements, Moroccan rugs are, in the literal sense, warm. But they also bring a warmth to your room as they hug your floor. Their texture and ability to be easily layered immediately add a sense of warmth to any room. Moroccan rugs also give your visitors something to crush over as they warm their toes on a hand knotted Berber carpet.
The fact that they are vintage and still existing at such high quality is testimony enough to their durability. Their natural materials of wool and plant based dyes also add to their longevity as they are untainted by chemical dyes and inferior synthetic fibers. Wool loves sun. The sun adds character, rather than damage to your woollen Moroccan rug. Berbers use these rugs daily in harsh environments. Berber rugs have been designed and handmade to withstand the elements and test of time.
Berber rugs are a vibrant kaleidoscope of art, history and culture. Each symbol, pattern and color choice is deliberate to reflect the experiences of the weaver. Fertility, strength, and protection from evil are represented in the various symbols chosen by the weavers. Some rugs focus on one or two symbols repeated, whilst others seem to tell a story with every space displaying a different motif. These same concepts are mirrored through color choice. Ranging from monochrome, to muted tones, to bright eclectic explosions of colours Moroccan rug weavers give Fauvism a run for its money. The complexities of a Moroccan rug go far beyond its unique hand knotting technique. Moroccan rugs can truly be appreciated as a work of art to be proudly displayed on your wall or living room floor.
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Whilst serving a practical purpose for the weavers and their families, carpets have found their way onto the floors of homes far removed, geographically, from the weavers themselves. Eagerly bought by tourists as mementos, and retailers with an eye for quality; the rugs of Morocco’s Berbers can be found all over the world. It is the women who are responsible, not only for the production of the rugs, but also for the preservation of Berber culture and the art of weaving.
For the Berbers, weaving is a social event. It is literally the thread that holds families and communities together. Weaving with wool is labour intensive. The women wash, comb and spin the wool themselves; they rely on daughters, daughters-in-laws, friends and neighbours to complete the rugs. Becker (2006) explains that “…every aspect of weaving, from start to finish is a communal endeavour, demonstrating the Amazigh’s (Berber’s) concept of adwal or co-operation…” (20).
Morocco’s architecture is heavily influenced by the arrival of Islam, yet this influence stopped well short of the Berber’s handicraft. Perhaps this is why “tradition is nowhere stronger than in textile art and in the heading down of symbols” (Barbatti, 2008, 14) Berber weavings have a strong emphasis on female fertility. Nowhere is this more obvious than in the weaving of the wedding blanket or handira. These blankets are made by the bride and her female relatives to prepare her for married life, and serve a hugely symbolic purpose. The handira wards off evil spirits, brings luck and, perhaps most importantly, grants fertility.
The Berber carpet is unique in several ways. Whilst many believe carpets and rugs to be Islamic in origin, the type of knot the Berber women use is found nowhere else in the world. The women weave almost exclusively straight lines in simple geometric forms, incorporating fertility symbols. It is this simplicity that has seen the Berber rug become so easily exported and loved the world over.
The changes of Berber lifestyle can be tracked through the carpets of the women. As the Berbers became less nomadic and increasingly settled, they found it difficult to maintain large herds of livestock. Increasing desertification and years of drought saw most Berbers sell almost all their sheep and goats. The women were forced to buy their wool in the marketplace, where it was often expensive. Women began unravelling old jumpers and leggings; whatever they could find with synthetic thread to supplement their wool. The Berber carpets now reflect this adaptation, with their brightly coloured, synthetic embellishments. Many believe that these carpets are somewhat better than the traditionally dyed wool ones, as they are colourfast and somewhat quirky.
Whether Berber weavings are used practically or adorn the walls of galleries or homes, there is no arguing they are inherently beautiful. Women are responsible for these works of art and most importantly the preservation of their wonderful culture.
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Recently, Prince Harry and the very pregnant Duchess Meghan enjoyed a flying, three day visit to Morocco. Their visit was to discover how Morocco is empowering women, promoting girls’ education, inclusivity and social entrepreneurship.
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Moroccan inspired interiors are quickly finding their niche in the homes of many outside of the former French African colony. Patricia , from Moroccan Bungalow, shares tea with Soufiane Aissouni to discuss his role in the promotion of this divine style.
When considering how to describe Moroccan décor, eclectic readily springs to mind, as does unique. Each piece is a one of a kind crafted with experienced hands of artisans from all over the country. Soufiane is one such artisan who, not only designs interiors, but creates his own furniture and home accessories to show off his Moroccan heritage.
A self-described meticulous creative Soufiane’s Lamba collection of lamps are made from raffia and metal a mix of traditional and different techniques. Through collaboration with local artisans he personally seeks out, Soufiane expresses a desire to develop the tradition, “…to combine local knowledge with a minimalist design and pure forms, the goal being to give soul to my creations”. Soufiane approaches his designs with maturity and a sense of custodianship, “Moroccan craftmanship is an integral part of our culture, we must preserve it… (Lamba lamps) remind (you of) the colours of the earth and the light of Marrakech…”
Losing yourself in the alleyways and medinas of Marrakech or even just a scroll through Soufiane’s Instagram, you can’t help but feel a pang of jealously that he is almost drowning in inspiration. “…my town…is a box of inspiration and curiosity…every day is a discovery” In addition to being surrounded by breathtaking scenes, Soufiane is awed by the artisans he meets “…I’ve met the most adorable inspirational women of the countryside that does the raffia, the technique, the atmosphere, the teamwork, gathering all around the table while making those beautiful handmade shapes with good spirit and a joyful atmosphere”. Soufiane also takes the time to learn from the traditional artisans and produce his own handicrafts for his lines. His approach is not only practical for a designer, but also safeguards the beautiful Moroccan artisan culture, that is sometimes underappreciated in the 21st, heavily tech-reliant century.
His almost obsession with Moroccan techniques, and refusal to ignore his own Berber heritage, sees his interiors take on a minimalist, yet familiar Moroccan atmosphere. “I’m mostly into the modern, but with little reminders of Moroccan culture, (it) could be a curtain in linen, with a little detail of embroidery…a material or texture into a modern, contemporary item”. Morocco and its unique style does lend itself well to be described as bohemian chic, as “…it’s very simple and pure that does make your space alive, mostly charming and warm”.
Also employing his skills as a scenographer, Soufiane hopes to share some Moroccan inspired aesthetics alongside the idea that the Arab culture is closed to change. “…there’s a lot of Moroccan artists here and designers, and they are really creative. People are always curious here and they all giving a step to and allow to people to show them new things”.
Despite his love for tradition, Soufiane realises that, especially as Moroccan décor hits its strides, competition can be fierce and social media, as a result, is unavoidable. Instagram has become a business for him now, and enables him to “…share my collection, my work, it’s like the word of mouth, you make a post, people see it, maybe sharing it, start talking about it, it gives you a sort of identity and visibility to the people”. Not only that, but it provides artisans, like Soufiane, with a platform where they can shout to the world about the beauty of their unique, hand-made products and promote a love for preserving the traditions of such culture-rich people.
Soufiane’s love for handmade Moroccan products was the impetus for the Moroccan Bungalow to begin a rug collaboration with him. Through this exciting and new collection Soufiane feels that he is able to translate his culture and grow as a designer and producer to catch the attention of a larger, and different audience. Stay tuned for their exciting new projects to come from the unique collaboration of a Berber interior designer and Patricia who is passionate about the sustainability and preservation of the Berber culture.
]]>The cooler months are upon us and creating a home that exudes warmth requires thoughtful layering. A home that can respond to variations in temperature year long without losing a warm and welcoming feel requires deeper consideration about textures, fibres, colours and designs.
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As far as I’m concerned, minimalism often doesn’t cut it when I’m wanting an atmosphere that oozes comfort and conviviality, that’s why Moroccan textiles and homewares are so versatile for even the ‘less-is-more’ kind of person. Each rug, cushion and Turkish Suzanis are practical items that are individually hand-crafted and some are vintage. The tactile nature of each item, embroidered or embellished, with perfect imperfections, is reminiscent of the cosy hand-knitted jumper that’s custom made with love. Each carefully chosen and designed item carries the histories and traditions of the craftspeople – spanning centuries.
(IMAGE FROM PINTEREST)
These unique items, a pleasure to the eye, are hardy and made to be used. I take great pleasure in feeling the natural fibres of my Azalil Morrocan Rug under bare feet with its quirky design and vivid palette bringing life to my bedroom. The Silk Pink Suzani throw on my bed complements the vivacity of the rug and the texture has a very human sensory appeal aesthetically and with the practicality of warmth from the natural fibres. I have been guilty of transferring this item from bed to couch and even use it as a wall hanging. I love mixing these with hand crocheted blankets and cashmere and mohair throws, ready to curl up with a hot beverage of choice and a good book. The rug comfortably covered a single futon bed (add Cactus silk and Boucherouite cushions, Suzani ) to create a snug and appealing ‘lay-about’ where I often had to fight for space with my four-legged masters), and has also been mounted on the wall (and will be again in the summer months).
Eclectic, minimal, cluttered, classic or otherwise - Home is about comfort, tactility, versatility and materials that the senses can feast on and respond to. Morrocan Bungalow products tick these boxes for me. I don’t need to recommend them. Just look at them and you’ll sense their inimitable appeal.
]]>My trip to Marrakech is just around the corner! I can’t wait to feast my eyes upon Morocco’s amazing sights and sounds, not to mention ALL those handicrafts and boho pieces. But first I need to get there!
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