Vintage Moroccan Beni Ouarain Carpet BO16

Knotted in ivory and warm melange grey and light brown wool, this Beni Ouarain has a central vertical lozenge chain surrounded by male zigzag (snake) motifs. The pattern shifts from dark to light tones, and appears to fade into the negative space at one end. A very usable smaller size. 100% wool pile with a combination of wool/cotton warp and fringe.

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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.1980
dimensions.5'11" x 3'11" / 1.8m x 1.19m
pile height.Medium
fringe length.3"
condition.Excellent
rug no.BO16
rug no.