Vintage Moroccan Beni Ouarain Carpet BO_121

An excellent mid-century Beni Ouarain example displaying an overall lozenge network with hatched detailing. Tree of life and branch motifs fill the lozenges, providing a balanced male/female presence to the piece. A chain of hamsa (camel track) motifs forms a border along one selvedge. Woven in charcoal grey, black, warm brown and coral pink on a warm ivory ground. 100% wool with a time faded patina.

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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-1960's
dimensions.11'5" x 6'6" / 3.47m x 1.98m
pile height.Low
fringe length.4"
condition.Excellent
rug no.BO_121
rug no.