Vintage Moroccan Beni Ouarain Carpet BO36

This vintage Moroccan Beni Ouarain carpet exhibits the classic female fertility lozenge motif, quite consistent in form, flanked by varying vertical lozenge chains on both sides. A more recent example (dated 1985 on the reverse by the weaver), knotted in ivory and black 100% wool.

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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.1985
dimensions.9'5" x 6'7" / 2.87m x 2.01m
pile height.Medium
fringe length.6"
condition.excellent
rug no.BO36
rug no.