Vintage Moroccan Beni M'Guild Carpet BG10

This vintage Moroccan Beni M'Guild carpet exhibits strong male symbolism, evident in the zigzag motifs (derived from the snake) and side borders/central band of lozenge chains. The lozenge is a quintessential female Berber symbol, but when linked into a vertical chain, it becomes a sign of male protection. The abrashed magenta ground is a low dense pile with pattern knotted in orange, charcoal grey, faded violet, olive green/grey, and ivory. Minor fringe loss. 100% wool.

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tribe.

Beni M'Guild

The Beni M'Guild tribe has a long tradition of carpet making...their work tends to be quite dense, as tribes of this region weave their pieces to withstand the harsh cold climate of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Common Berber symbolism can be found in many of their woven works, while other carpets are created with solid fields, devoid of any patterns or motifs. Variations in dye lots fade over the decades, showing as subtle nuances in hue (abrash), often creating waves of color. Sometimes, the dense pile reveals a hidden pattern from below.

tribe.Beni M'Guild
region.Middle Atlas Mountains, Morocco
circa.1950's
dimensions.10' x 6' / 3.05m x 1.83m
pile height.Low
fringe length.4"
condition.Excellent
rug no.BG10
rug no.