Vintage Moroccan Beni Ouarain Carpet BO52

This antique Beni Ouarain carpet has an intricate ornate graphic pattern knotted in ivory and black wool. Its lozenge pattern is filled with a chain of joined triangles, a symbol of mating. Contained within this network is a variation on the quincunx (cross with motifs in center and on the diagonals of a lozenge), symbolizing the unborn child in a mother's womb. Male side protection borders frame the composition. Signs of wear in areas with some missing fringe, displaying age and adding to the carpet's character and patina. 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.1920
dimensions.9' x 6'1" / 2.74m x 1.85m
pile height.Low
fringe length.4"
condition.Very Good
rug no.BO52
rug no.