What Makes Moroccan Berber Carpets Unique?
Moroccan carpets are famous all over the world. Already in the 7th century, Berber women weaved camels’ and sheep’s wool carpets and used natural dyes. This already speaks of the uniqueness of such products, but this is only the beginning.
These rugs are still valued today and are often used to create chic interior designs. Do you want a Moroccan rug? After discovering the unique features of such carpets, you will be able to make the right decision, but we are quite sure they will not leave you indifferent.
Distinctive Features of Moroccan Carpets
There are two types of carpets – the traditional Berber and Rabat, which are made using a knotted technique. Speaking of the latter type, it is believed that they appeared in the 17th century. This suggestion is connected to historical events when Muslims fled to the country and shared the basics of Persian carpet weaving.
True connoisseurs of carpet weaving choose the Berber carpets with a lot of complex patterns. Just imagine – there can be 150 thousand knots in one carpet.
Berber carpets have a simpler design compared to Rabat ones, but they are unique due to their knots, and they are well known from the 7th century. These rugs are woven by ancient tribes from rural areas. Each tribe has its history and its ornaments with magical meanings. What are the key features?
- Pronounced symbolism on the ornament, depending on the tribe. Each fragment has its special meaning. The most famous is the rhombus, which symbolizes a mirror that protects from ill-wishers.
- The prevalence of yellow and red colors. This choice of colors is made because yellow is believed to have the power of a talisman, and red has a healing effect.
- Persian and Turkish knots are used to create a carpet. The tighter the knot, the longer the carpet will serve.
An Interesting Moroccan Carpet Tradition
Speaking about Moroccan carpets, it is impossible to miss the traditions of this craft. This is exactly what creates an atmosphere of uniqueness around each carpet. It is believed that every Berber woman should knit three carpets during her life.
- The girl begins to create her first carpet at the age of 12, and this carpet is created for her future spouse. Such a rug is usually simple and has more childish patterns.
- The second carpet is created for the whole family on a white basis. The woman’s thoughts are put into the ornament.
- The third carpet is created for their heirs. The history of the family, symbols of the tribe, and even wishes to their descendants are embedded in the ornament.
Isn’t that what makes Moroccan rugs so unique? Knowing all this, the attitude towards the carpet is already changing, and it becomes a real work of art and not just a design element.
Concluding Words – Moroccan Style in Modern Interior
Moroccan style in the interior is a real cocktail of Arabic and Mediterranean motives. This style is loved for its discreet variety and originality. A unique Moroccan carpet can smooth out the severity and functionality of a room thanks to its unique geometric patterns. Bright colors can endow the room with a new atmosphere.
And if you also dig into the symbolism, then the Moroccan carpet can become a real keeper of the family hearth. How can you pass by such a masterpiece?