What are the Different Types of Moroccan Rugs?

A prevailing misconception surrounding Moroccan rugs is the belief in their limited variety. Contrary to this, the reality is astonishingly diverse, encompassing not just a handful, but potentially hundreds of types! This rich tapestry of diversity emerges from the individual expressions of the various Amazigh (Berber) tribes throughout Morocco, numbering over 40 distinct groups. Moreover, within these tribes, the potential for multiple styles to emerge further multiplies the range. The cumulative effect of these factors is readily apparent.
A common selling mechanism is to make a rug seem special simply because it’s labeled as a “Berber” rug. Yet, the authenticity of Moroccan rugs inherently makes them Berber, as they are handcrafted by the Berber populace of Morocco. Initially woven for practical utility, these rugs maintain their functional value in the present day. The intricacies of style may shift based on the geographic locale of the tribe. For instance, the requirements of tribes dwelling in the cold climes of the High Atlas Mountains markedly differ from those of nomadic counterparts in the Sahara desert regions.
Boujaad Rugs
Boujad rugs are most commonly encountered in shades of red, pink, and orange, although hints of purples and blues can occasionally grace their designs. The pile height of these rugs can vary, spanning from high to low, with some striking a balance in between. Tradition dictates the use of natural dyes, resulting in vintage styles that exude a more subdued, pastel-like coloration.
These meticulously hand-knotted rugs burst forth with a profusion of motion and color, showcasing an intricate interplay of shapes like diamonds, squares, stars, and an assortment of other symbols. Originating from the expansive central plains of Morocco, Boujad rugs exhibit an astonishing array of variations. This diversity finds its roots in the vast expanse of the territory they cover, which is home to a myriad of distinct landscapes and communities.
Beni Ourain Rugs
In recent times, this particular rug design has gained immense popularity in Western countries. It’s probable that you’ve come across them on interior design platforms and within retail stores. The hallmark of this style lies in its inherent simplicity. The primary material employed is natural, undyed wool
The patterns are characterized by straightforward geometric elements, often consisting of diamonds or lines. Variations within this style include rugs featuring sporadic lines or scattered symbols across the surface. This uncomplicated design makes it remarkably adaptable, seamlessly integrating into a wide range of home or office settings..
Moroccan Kilim Rugs
Kilim rugs are available in various styles, all characterized by their flat weave construction. Their design is intentionally portable, catering to the needs of nomadic tribes who craft them. These rugs are not only effortlessly transportable, but also lightweight and easily storable, suiting the lifestyle of these tribes that are frequently on the move.
If you’re seeking a rug that boasts durability, effortless vacuuming, and seamless mobility, then the Kilim rug perfectly fits the bill.
Taznakht Rugs
These rugs stand out for their exceptional uniqueness. Among their diverse styles, a particularly distinctive variant features a captivating three-dimensional aspect. This intricate effect is achieved through a combination of three weaving techniques: flat weaving, knotting, and embroidery. This skillful interplay generates a tactile pattern that seems to rise from the surface. Predominantly, the designs within this style are composed of diamonds and triangles.
With a rich palette of diverse colors, these rugs share more similarities with kilim rugs than some of the higher pile counterparts. Occasionally referred to as Glaoui rugs, they owe this name to their place of origin, an area historically linked to the notorious pasha Thami Glaoui.
Mrirt Rugs
Woven with unspun, pure, and prestigious wool from Morocco’s most elegant sheep, the Beni M’rirt Rug is of the highest quality and rarity. It is also naturally stain and fire-resistant, ensuring unparalleled comfort and seamlessness.
The exceptional quality of the rug is due in part to the masterful weavers behind its creation. Berber women of the Atlas Mountains, with years of experience and talent, produce these luxurious handwoven Mrirt Rugs. Each rug is a testament to the artist’s skill and dedication, an ancestral art that has been honed since Paleolithic times.
Vintage Rug
A Moroccan vintage rug is a window into the past, a tactile piece of history that graces any space with its enduring beauty. Woven by artisans long ago, it wears its age like a badge of honor, with colors and patterns that tell tales of generations gone by. The fading hues and intricate designs evoke a sense of nostalgia, a reminder of the hands that crafted it and the culture it represents. In each thread, the spirit of Moroccan artistry is preserved, offering a unique and captivating addition to modern interiors.