Darla Vintage Moroccan Rug

• Moroccan rugs don’t come with a key. As with any painting or poem, their motifs have many subjective interpretations. Originally made for personal use, these rugs took months to weave, documenting a shifting tide of events and emotions in the weaver’s life.
• Artisanal and tribal, geometric designs feature angular edges and primitive shapes—like diamonds, squares, lattices, and stylized animals
• An absolute classic, diamond-based designs create a beautiful and dynamic field of geometric shapes
• A geometric, step-like pattern which expresses the primitive, artisanal qualities of weaving from nomadic cultures
• A series of repeating medallions create a beautifully complex field or pattern
• Stripes—a simple and timeless classic

Once on the caravan route from port towns like Agadir and Essaouira, the territory of the agricultural Ait Ouaouzguite was home to herds of cattle, goats, and sheep. Ait Ouaouzguite rugs are made with silky, carefully-chosen wool, and are rather light, with a shorter pile. Heavily influenced by city carpets, these rugs are typically symmetrical, with stripes of weft-twining, or soumac, at which this tribe is expert.

Wool, a staple in Moroccan rug design, was considered almost sacred to the Amazigh (Berber) people, whose nomadic lifestyle included sheep and goat herding. In addition to being available, wool is durable, long-lasting, and incredibly plush—so it’s super comfy to walk and relax on. In this piece, the wool pile is knotted onto a wool foundation, adding body and helping it hug the floor.

Moroccan wool is locally sourced and produces a thick, strong pile that feels soft underfoot. Having stood the test of time, this hand-processed wool has reacted to its various environments, acquiring an untamed, nubby look and feel.