Rug Origins: Morocco Rugs

The History of Wool Rugs in Morocco

Wool rugs have been present in Morocco since the Stone Age, but it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that top Western designers discovered their ‘primitive’ beauty and began using them in prestigious projects. This discovery sparked the ‘Moroccan’ style interior design movement and led to a surge in imitation Moroccan rugs. Understanding the origins of these rugs helps in distinguishing authentic Berber-made rugs from machine-made replicas.

The Berber People and Their Weaving Art

Long before the Arab conquests in North Africa, the Berber tribes inhabited the Atlas Mountains, a region known for its harsh climate, especially in winter. The Berbers adapted to their environment by using sheep wool to create carpets, cloaks, and sleeping mats that protected them from the elements. They also added colors using natural dyes made from fruits, leaves, and minerals.

Each tribe developed its own unique weaving style and design patterns, similar to how Persian rugs are categorized by the city or town of their origin. This variety explains the different types of Berber-made rugs available today.

Moroccan Style Vs. Moroccan-Made

With the growing demand for Moroccan designs, many businessmen and traders have sought to capitalize on this trend. However, rather than selling genuine handmade Berber rugs, many opt to mass-produce rugs with Moroccan-themed designs. While this promotes Moroccan designs, experts and rug collectors argue that it harms both the livelihood of Berber weavers and the heritage of Moroccan rugs.

Mass-produced Moroccan-style carpets often cost less than authentic Moroccan rugs because they are made from synthetic materials. However, these rugs do not last long and are typically used for decoration, which defeats the purpose of investing in a rug. In contrast, handwoven wool Moroccan rugs are crafted from 100% organic materials, taking longer to produce and requiring expensive, time-consuming processes.

This is why, like other artisanal products worldwide, handcrafted Moroccan rugs must be preserved and protected. The weaving techniques, often closely guarded secrets passed down through generations, take years or even decades to master.