Timeless Elegance: Discovering the Charm of Vintage Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan rugs have stories woven in them and are sought-after by collectors worldwide. These are made by tribal women and represent a range of Moroccan beliefs, cultures, and traditions. More than simple floor coverings, these honour the country's ideologies and their manufacturers' artistic inclinations. 

A Brief History of Moroccan Rugs

Moroccan rugs have a rich history, and vintage pieces are often made by women in rural villages and tribes in Morocco and North Africa. These women were usually housebound and used rug weaving as an outlet for their creativity. The result is bold Moroccan rugs that are visually stunning and tell their story. 

After making these rugs, the women would use them in their homes as floor rugs, blankets, and even bed covers. The dense weave and thick material, such as sheep's wool, would provide comfort and warmth during chilly nights. These Moroccan rugs were also sold at local markets and acted as a prime source of income for many tribal families. 

The Most Popular Types of Moroccan Rugs

Not all Moroccan rugs are made the same. The most popular type includes the following:

Azilal Rugs 

Many Moroccan weavers incorporate geometric designs into their rugs, from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara. The Azilal Moroccan rug features heavy designs which include intricate symbols and images in the textiles depicting ancestral myths. Since the Berber weavers did not share a common written language, they used these symbols to communicate. 

Boujad Rugs

Also known as Boyjaad rugs, these Moroccan rugs are often spread out in simple décor to add a splash of vibrant colour to the space. Traditional varieties are made of top-quality wool that is super soft to the touch and features natural dyes. Boujad rugs boast gorgeous Moroccan motifs and lozenges, lines, and shapes for a striking look. No artificial dyes and chemicals are used during the weaving process. You can find these in pink, red, orange, and purple.

Boucherouite Rugs

Boucherouite rugs were the result of several economic and social changes. The term is Arabic and refers to a piece taken from used clothing. The rugs were created by nomadic tribal people who transitioned from goat herding to modern employment options. While this reduced the wool supply, the practice was adopted by remote tribes living in the Central Plains of Morocco, such as the Ourika tribe. 

Kilims

Kilims are low-pile rugs woven by hand and have a flat weave. While they are a bit on the thin side, their sturdiness and durability are unmatched. The rugs are art pieces made by Amazigh tribal weavers who used them to tell their stories. The symbols and designs are distinguishable from one Kilim rug to the next. 

How to Choose a Moroccan Rug

Not all Moroccan rugs are made equal. Here are some factors you should keep in mind while you shop for one:

Search for Patterns and Symbols 

Carpet weaving was inspired and introduced by the Berber tribes. Each symbol, motif, and pattern has a meaning. It could symbolise fertility, celebrate a birth or even complement a region. In other words, when you are in the market for Moroccan rugs, search for those whose stories inspire you through their design. When you take these rugs home, you take home a whole tribe’s story and lineage. 

Imperfections Are Normal 

Hand-woven Moroccan rugs are made by Berber tribes and feature abstract patterns and symbols that tell their story. Expect some imperfections as the charm of the real deal lies in those stories, which may have twists and turns. We can say that Moroccan rugs mimic life – it has dips and valleys that encapsulate the human experience. 

A Moroccan rug is a timeless piece that can meet the aesthetic you are going for, but each one has a different story to tell. Choose wisely and you will not regret your choice. 

Find the Best Moroccan Rugs at The Rugs

If you are looking for an authentic Moroccan rug, check out the collection at The Rugs. We offer a wide selection of various colours, designs, and patterns that can meet your needs. Whether you need a rug for your living room, bathroom, bedroom, or office space, we have a piece that can fit your aesthetic requirements.

Place your order today. You can also contact us for more information. All personal data is strictly confidential and protected so that you can shop without any worries.