Moroccan rugs tell the story of a rich artistic heritage, tradition, craft, and resilience. 

Packed with vibrant colors, these pieces aren’t just floor coverings; they are intricate works of art that reflect the identity, skills, and creativity of the Moroccan people and their tribal representation. 

Tribal Representation and the Berber People

The majority of traditional rugs from Morocco trace back to Berber beginnings, with many works crafted by the indigenous Berber people who have inhabited Northern Africa for centuries. The Moroccan Berber tribes have a long-standing tradition of weaving, and their rugs feature unique geometric patterns, vivid colors, and symbols that hold cultural significance. 

In Landry and Arcari’s Moroccan area rug collection, many tribes like the Beni Ourain and Boucherouite people are represented. 

Morocco is a country with diverse landscapes and geography, and this depth is reflected directly throughout its rugs and design. Different regions produce distinct styles of traditional rug, each influenced by local traditions and available materials. 

If you travel through Morocco’s Northern coast, the Rif Mountains, the high, middle and Low Atlas, to the Sahara, you will notice variations in language, clothing, cooking, architecture, social structure, marriage customs, and design style. 

In the words of our own Jeff Arcari, “The Berbers weren’t afraid of color and honestly neither are we!” he laughs, while simultaneously unraveling bales and bales of antique and vintage Moroccan rugs. 

The endless variations of design and color tell stories and set intentions for all occasions. The endless adventure from rug to rug is what has us all wrapped up in these pieces. 

Timeless Materials

The materials used in Moroccan rugs contribute to their durability and distinctive appearance. Traditional Moroccan rugs often feature colors derived from natural sources like plants, vegetables, and minerals. This contributes to the distinct and earthly color palette of these rugs.  

Most Moroccan rugs are made from high-quality sheep wool. This natural fiber is known for its softness and warmth. It also takes to natural dyes particularly well, allowing for a wide range of colors. 

Cotton is often used for the foundation of the rug, forming the base on which the natural wool pile is woven. The distinct combination of wool and cotton makes for a particularly durable and lifelong weave.  

Some weavers may even blend different materials to create a varied texture. For example, a mix of high-pile and low-pile sections can add visual interest and unique dimensions to a rug. 

Style and Symbolism

Moroccan rugs serve as a form of visual language, conveying messages and stories through symbols and motifs. Weaving designs of purpose and intention were essential to the Berber people and many tribes alike. 

These iconic rugs were made and used all over the home from the floors to the walls, to tent coverings and for ceremonial occasions. 

One of the most striking features of a vintage Moroccan rug is its geometric design. These patterns often consist of diamonds, triangles, and other shapes, each representing different aspects of Berber culture, such as spirituality, fertility, or protection from evil. 

The symmetry and precision of these designs showcase the artisan's skill and storytelling. 

Dozens and dozens of the symbols woven into these vintage rugs carry meanings that are passed down through generations dating back to the Paleolithic Era. 

Spotlight Appeal

In recent years, Moroccan rugs have gained immense popularity in the global market, transcending cultural boundaries to become a coveted interior design item. 

The unique combination of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design sensibilities makes these rugs a playful addition to any space, from bold and colorful bohemian-inspired living rooms to minimalist modern interiors.  

Rolling out this collection spotlight here at Landry and Arcari we have spent many hours admiring and honoring each rug and the individuality it “brings to the table”. Our ultimate goal is to help educate you by sharing our experience and storytelling every step of the way. 

Across all design tastes and opinions, there has been a unique favorite for everyone at Landry and Arcari. When it's time for you to style your Morrocan rug adventure, we are along for the ride.