Vintage Moroccan Beni Ouarain Carpet BO68

An artistic rendering of traditional Berber symbolism, this vintage Beni Ouarain has a large scale lozenge network containing chessboards, double arrows, hatchings, and ladder motifs. The composition is divided by a central vertical band of smaller lozenges and framed by male hammer protection borders on both sides. Faded orange and violet add an unexpected bit of color to an otherwise neutral palette of ivory and dark brown. 100% wool with a time worn patina. Note some areas of faint dye transfer, which does not detract from the overall character of the piece.

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tribe.

Beni Ouarain

This nomadic Berber tribe produces some of the finest quality rugs in all of Morocco. Usually made of natural ivory and black or brown wool as the pattern, these rugs show an archaic symbolism that dates back to the earliest forms of art and writing. Known for their simplistic lozenge patterns, these motifs are a link to some of the oldest discovered human artifacts, including the ancient Venus figurines of Europe. The Beni Ouarain weave with a double knot technique which allows for a thicker pile construction and added insulation from the cold. These rugs are used for family beds and could be folded over to provide protection from frigid temperatures.

tribe.Beni Ouarain
region.Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco
circa.1950's
dimensions.10'2" x 5'9" / 3.10m x 1.75m
pile height.Low
fringe length.1"
condition.Very Good
rug no.BO68
rug no.