Gulan 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 Originally made for personal use, these rugs took months to weave, documenting a shifting tide of events and emotions in the weaver’s life.
• Deeply meaningful symbols to the women weavers of this culture, these interconnected medallions represent pregnancy and motherhood
• A geometric, step-like pattern which expresses the primitive, artisanal qualities of weaving from nomadic cultures
• Crosses are a fundamental element of rug design (occasionally alluding to faith)
• An eye motif indicates the power to reflect the evil eye, and thus protect the weaver
• A tree of life, a symbol found in religions worldwide, alludes to nature and was commonly used in Amazigh tattoos

The Marmoucha tribal territory includes some of the highest elevations of the Middle Atlas. These rugs have a very heavy pile, and were woven for both bed and floor coverings. They often feature chessboard or triangular designs, double-sided pile at the edges, and limited borders.

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 soft—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.