Sjoukje Vintage Moroccan Runner 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 Originally made for personal use, these rugs took months to weave, documenting a shifting tide of events and emotions in the weaver’s life.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 simple, but classic design—zig-zag patterns represent water as a vital element in life
• Directional design or color gradients with purposeful asymmetry and movement

Azilal rugs typically have abstract, painterly designs, and are similar to rugs from Ourika. These pieces can be distinguished by their bright colors, facilitated by the use of cotton in addition to wool.

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 strong cotton foundation, prized for its sturdiness.

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.