The Moroccan Berber rug is a trend that dates as far back as the Paleolithic Era, also called the Old Stone Age. Considering the soft, thick material and simple yet elegant design, it is easy to see why these rugs have maintained their position of prestige in interior design plans. Also called the Beni Ourain rug, they are woven by the Beni Ourain peoples from the Rif mountains near Taza. Originally these rugs were not intended for decorative purposes, but rather they were made practically to protect the people from the snow caps on the nearby Atlas Mountains.
The Moroccan Berber rug is made in variants based on the climate it is to be used in. For the mountains, they are made thick and warm, and for use in the Sahara Desert they are made flat and light, occasionally knotted as well. The Beni Ourain rug is not only practical based on climate but is used in many Moroccan traditions as burial shrouds, sleeping mats, and the designs used are passed from weaver to weaver in ancient tradition. For example, one coastal city of Morocco, Rabat, is famous for floral and diamond designs. The traditional colors used in the Moroccan Berber rug vary greatly as well, suiting the myriad of other variability in their design. Neutral shades, colorful hues, geometric patterns, abstract designs, and many more aesthetic choices are all considered when a Beni Ourain rug is in the process of being designed. In some cases, the rug design is used to display the life phases of a woman. In such cases the phases most usually identified are birth, childhood, virginity, bridal union, pregnancy, labor, birth, and a new child. Designs such as this are usually used as gifts to celebrate a birth or encourage fertility in Moroccan culture. The development of popularity of these rugs in the West can be traced back to mid-century furniture designers such as Le Corbusier, whose sleek furniture designs pair with the most common forms of these rugs beautifully. The elegance of the Moroccan Berber rugs is roundabout, stated in its pure uniqueness and practicality. These qualities reinforce, somewhat ironically because of how old the tradition is, sleek and modern trends in Western design. Deep tradition, practicality, a rich history, and variability of design make the Moroccan Berber rugs an excellent addition to any home so long as it is ethically sourced and made by those who continue its traditions personally and understand the deeply cultural origin of the rug. The understanding of the Beni Ourain rugs gives the user a deeper connection to the design of their home by way of cultural appreciation, historical knowledge, and an understanding of the deep, powerful traditions involved. Visit www.citycows.co.uk for more information.
