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Moroccan Berber and Beni Ourain Rugs – The Atlas Mountain Rug

Moroccan Berber and Beni Ourain Rugs - The Atlas Mountain Rug

Moroccan Berber and Beni Ourain Rugs

There are few traditions that stand the true test of time, but the production of Moroccan Berber rugs has endured and become one of the most popular types of home decor today. Moroccan Berber carpets are uniquely handwoven rugs created by the Berber tribes, particularly the Beni Ourain tribe, of North Africa and the Sahara.

The rich history of Berber and Beni Ourain rugs dates all the way back to the Paleolithic Era. Traditionally made of 100 percent wool, modern rugs can also be made with nylon and Olefin fiber. Each rug is handmade, and often homemade, in a variety of colors and intricate designs. Most major cities actually have signature designs and styles that represent that city.

Beni Ourain rugs typically are undyed and feature simple geometric designs or symbols. An ancient breed of sheep indigenous to the Atlas Mountains where the Beni Ourain live traditionally provides the wool for their unique rugs. Since the rugs are typically made by women, the designs often represent aspects of their lives like motherhood, pregnancy, and femininity. Almost all weavers of Berber rugs tend to not have any sort of artistic training, and the skills and methods of making the rugs is passed down through women in each family.

Berber rugs in Morocco have many uses. Berber tribes use the rugs as bed covers as well as sleeping mats. They make sturdy saddle blankets as well. Some are even used as clothing accessories or burial shrouds for the dead. They can be made to be very thick with a high pile, making them warm coverings for life in the cold Atlas Mountains. Alternatively, they can be made thin with a light pile for protection from the harsh Sahara Desert. When used as a part of modern home decor, Berber rugs can be used for full room carpets or area rugs. The simple elegance of the rugs is appealing, and often designers will pair Berber rugs with modernist furniture to give a room a subtle contrast between modern and ancient looks.

Due to their tight knotted construction, Berber rugs are very durable and can handle years of foot traffic. Full room carpets are generally inexpensive and are highly stain-resistant. Their unique designs can add color and detail to any room. For those who are into a more minimalistic look, the Beni Ourain rugs are usually white with black designs on them. For those concerned about keeping their decor as natural as possible, Beni Ourain rugs are usually made of completely natural wool fibers.

Berber rugs are quickly becoming a popular choice for modern home decor. Their versatility and durability attract those with a practical sense of interior design. Homeowners looking to add a splash of subtle color will enjoy the interesting designs.

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11 Comments

  1. It is really interesting to hear more about the Moroccan Berber rugs, I have to admit I really do like the style of them and it is something I would love to have in my home.

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  2. Oh, I have such a passion for rugs! I can't wait until I have my own place and the funds to decorate with one (or more!) It was really interesting to read about the history of these ones! :) x

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  3. These Moroccan Berber rugs are really beautiful. I recall seeing Moroccan rugs for sale when I lived in Spain and they are even more beautiful in real life.

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  4. I go through so many rugs, I will be looking into these for the next time I make a purchase

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  5. I love rugs, and now that I live in an apartment that is carpteed and not floor I do have them in storage I do look forward to moving into an apt with wooden floor to take them back out.

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  6. Oh this is really interesting! I've just been writing about Morocco on my blog last week and the rugs are stunning! I loved seeing all of their tapestry!

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  7. I have never really been a rug person. I love the look of this though. Very cute.

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  8. Interesting to know! I like having rugs at home since they bring a new look.

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  9. I love the way that rugs can make a room look especially when there is hardwood. It can be the focal point and start for decorating in so many ways.

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  10. I have been looking into finding some rugs, my puppies claws sometimes leaving starches on the wood. Thanks for sharing!

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  11. Looks like a great design for rugs!! Would love to have it in our home! - Chuck

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