One of the most common misconceptions about Moroccan rugs is that they come in a limited number of styles. In reality, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of variations. With roughly 40 different Amazigh (Berber) tribes in Morocco, each tribe boasts its own distinctive rug style, and sometimes multiple styles are produced within the same tribe. You can see how quickly the diversity adds up!
A frequent sales tactic is to make a rug appear unique simply because it is labeled as a "Berber" rug. The truth is, all authentic Moroccan rugs are Berber rugs, crafted by the Berber people of Morocco. These rugs were originally designed for practical purposes and continue to serve those functions today. The styles vary significantly depending on the tribe's location; for instance, tribes in the cold High Atlas mountains have different needs than the nomadic tribes in the Sahara region, leading to distinct variations in their rug designs.
It would be difficult to include all of the different kinds of Moroccan rugs that exist, so we will highlight a few of the most common rug types.
The Crowned Jewel: Beni Ourain Rugs
This type of rug has recently gained immense popularity in Western countries. You've likely seen them featured on interior design feeds and in stores. The style is quite simple, typically utilizing natural, undyed wool.
The patterns are minimalist, often featuring imperfect geometric diamonds or lines. Some Beni rugs showcase random lines or symbols spread across the surface. The simplicity of the design makes these rugs versatile, allowing them to seamlessly fit into almost any home or office setting.
Modern meets Traditional: Azilal Rugs
Azilal rugs are modern art interpretations of Moroccan rugs. They are brightly colorful and fun. Ideal for someone who enjoys color and is not afraid to embrace it. They often have a wide range of hues, making them an excellent way to add flair to a room that would otherwise be monotone. Azilal rugs are richly patterned with diamonds, lines, and shapes. Traditionally, much of the symbolism was intended to preserve family histories. Today, some rugs still do this.
Perfectly Cheerful: Boujad Rugs
Boujad rugs are most usually found in red, pink, and orange tones, while purples and blues are seldom found. The piles can be high, low, or somewhere in between. Traditionally, they are tinted with natural dyes, and vintage styles will be more pastel in color.
These hand-knotted rugs are bright and cheerful, with a mix of diamonds, squares, stars, and other motifs. Boujad rugs are produced in Morocco's central Atlas region and can vary greatly due to the enormous spread of land and people.
The Renowned Moroccan Kilim Rugs
Kilim rugs come in a variety of styles, but they are all flat weaves. They are intended to be incredibly portable. The tribes that handmake these rugs are generally highly nomadic and require something that is not only easy to pick up and put down, but also lightweight and compact.
If you want a rug that is long-lasting, easy to vacuum, and can be moved around easily, this is it.
Flat but Dimensional: Taznakht Rugs
These rugs are absolutely unique. There are several various forms, but one of the most distinctive is the three-dimensional rug. These are made using three separate weaving styles: flat weaving, knotting, and embroidery. This generates a raised pattern. Diamonds and triangles make up the majority of designs in this style.
They feature a variety of colors and resemble kilim rugs more than some of the heavier pile varieties. These Berber rugs are also known as Glaoui because of the place where they are made; they were originally owned by the famed pasha Thami Glaoui.
These are just a few of the different, and more popular styles of Moroccan rugs, showcasing the rich diversity and intricate craftsmanship typical of the region. There are dozens more with plenty of variations to discover, each offering unique patterns, textures, and stories that reflect the vibrant culture and artistic heritage of Morocco.
