Kenthal 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 Originally made for personal use, these rugs took months to weave, documenting a shifting tide of events and emotions in the weaver’s life.
• A series of repeating medallions create a beautifully complex field or pattern
• A hexagonal shape (also known as a “lozenge”) represents the female form and fertility
• A simple, but classic design—zig-zag patterns represent water as a vital element in life
• A hooked detail, also known as a sickle, represents metal, which had protective magic according to the Amazigh
• A symmetrical overhead view of a floral rosette
• Triangular amulet design—believed to protect against evil spirits and bad luck
• A handsome, hand-braided fringe woven from threads of the loom

Taznakht is a major market town and weaving center associated with the Ait Ouaouzguite and Zanafi. Rugs from this region can be identified by their tightly-woven and finely-knotted lowish pile and occasional anthropomorphic designs. Their frequent use of yellow is due to abundant local yellow-dye materials, like gorse flowers.

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.