berber rugs – beautiful, durable, and rich with history

Authentic Berber rugs are traditional Moroccan rugs handwoven from sheered wool by the Berber Tribes. There are forty-five Berber Tribes in Morocco today, each with unique designs and weaving styles. Two commonalities across tribes are simplicity of design and richness of color. These rugs are recognizable by natural white and ivory tones with naturally dyed darker wool intertwined.

Berber rug makers are not usually formally trained artisans. Methods and designs are passed down from weaver to weaver. Designs may be free form or geometric, or there may be a color mix with no pattern. Modern day Berber rugs are recognizable by distinct loops and come in many shapes and sizes.

Today, the term Berber is used more broadly. Rugs that are not made by Berber tribes, but that resemble the loop pile weaving, may also be referred to as Berber rugs.

History of Berber Rugs
The origination of Berber rugs dates back to the Paleolithic Era when the North African Berber Tribes used natural fibers to create handspun cloth for rugs, cloaks, and other items.

Rugs were traditionally crafted for utility rather than for decoration using knotting, piling, and flat-weaving techniques. The weaving style used was dependent on the intended usage for the item.  Berber rugs were originally used for sleeping mats, bed coverings, saddle blankets, burial coverings, and self-adornment.

They were hand-crafted by sheered wool and the edges were burned to keep evil spirits from being attracted to the rug. Some weavers still do this today.  Rug-makers recorded myths and legends through symbols woven into the rugs in lieu of the written word. They also weaved in special symbols for spiritual protection.  Berber rugs became popular in the West when designers began pairing Berber rugs with Mid Century Modern furniture and décor.

Benefits of Berber Rugs
Berber rugs are known for their versatility, durability, comfort, and stain resistance.

• Versatile
  The simplicity of design and flecked color pattern on many Berber rugs help them work with a variety of décor styles.
• Durable
  The material used to create a Berber rugs affects durability to an extent, but the looping method, which leaves no exposed tips, makes these rugs long-lasting. After all, utility was the original focus of the Berber weavers.  These rugs are great for high traffic areas such as living rooms and hallways.
• Comfortable
  The looped weaving method makes Berber rugs cushy underfoot.
• Stain Resistant
  The tight weave used in Berber rugs makes it difficult for spills to penetrate and create stains.

Authentic Berber rugs are a beautiful addition to any home. They are rich with history and symbolism. Each rug is a representation of that particular weaver’s personal story and love for the craft.

If these aspects are important to you, be sure to inquire about the authenticity of the item when choosing a Berber rug to purchase.