What is Moroccan Rug?
Moroccan rugs are traditional rugs that have long been woven by the indigenous Berber people of Morocco. These rugs are made from durable, high-quality wool, making them extremely long-lasting.
Berber rugs incorporate designs related to prosperity, survival, protection and nature, and each tribe has their own unique designs and weaving techniques. Common symbols include diamonds, chevrons and Xs, which are believed to protect people from natural influences and negative energies.
The colors also have deep meanings: red symbolizes power and protection, blue wisdom, yellow eternity, and green peace. These symbolic designs and colors reflect the cultural background and beliefs of the weavers, giving the rugs a unique identity. Berber rugs in particular are heavily influenced by the beliefs and symbolism embedded in the rug patterns. Azilal rugs are handwoven by the Azilal people who live in the Atlas Mountains, and are characterized by colorful, abstract and asymmetrical patterns.
Moroccan rug materials
Moroccan rugs are usually made from sheep's wool, but cotton or synthetic yarns may also be used. The wool used to make the rugs is selected for its particularly high quality and can be purchased from merchants or sheared directly from the sheep. In the colder Atlas Mountains region, heavier wool is used, while in the Sahara Desert lighter flat-weave rugs are made.
Moroccan rugs are known for their vibrant colours, ranging from red to blue to yellow, reflecting the hues of Moroccan nature, especially its mountains and desert.
The durability of Moroccan rugs is ensured by the high quality wool and detailed patterns. Authentic Moroccan rugs made from 100% wool are flame resistant and will last for a long time while retaining their beauty.
Manufacturing process
- Shearing : The wool is carefully removed from the sheep, usually in the spring or summer, with careful consideration given to the health of the sheep and the quality of the wool.
- Washing : Wool is washed to remove mud and dirt and may also remove some of its natural oils (lanolin), but may leave some in to maintain its softness and waterproofing.
- Carding : Wool is conditioned through a process called carding, traditionally using wooden boards (cards) but also commonly using metal carding brushes, which aligns the fibres in a uniform direction to make them easier to weave into yarn.
- Dyeing : The wool is dyed with natural dyes made from plants and minerals, or synthetic dyes. Colour is an important feature of Moroccan rugs.
- Spinning : The wool is hand twisted into a strong yarn, which plays a key role in the durability of the rug.
- Weaving : Using traditional looms, weavers weave intricate patterns and designs into the rug.
- Washing and drying : The finished rug is washed again to remove any excess dye and lint, and finally dried. This ensures that the rug stays clean and vibrant in color.
Rooms where Moroccan rugs are suitable
Moroccan rugs are suitable for any room and can add character to spaces of various sizes. They are comfortable, durable and relatively easy to clean, making them suitable for use in a variety of locations, including nurseries, reading nooks, entryways and kitchens. They also create a cozy and warm atmosphere in living rooms and bedrooms.
Moroccan rugs are soft to the touch and durable, and look great in both simple and luxurious spaces, and blend well with bohemian, modern and traditional decor styles.
moroccan rug prices
The price of a Moroccan rug varies greatly depending on the size, design, material, and even the age and condition. Generally, the price range is from 20,000 to 500,000 yen, with the average price being 70,000 to 200,000 yen. Larger rugs, vintage rugs, and rare Moroccan rugs can cost more than 500,000 yen.
