T1401-004
Pile Carpet
Middle Atlas Mountains
Morocco
Beni Ourain Tribal Confederation
Mid 20th C.
Wool
The Beni Ourain people, living in the Middle Atlas ranges of Morocco, weave one of the most unique carpets of the region. Due to their geographic isolation deep in the mountains, they were historically untouched by the influence of Arabic designs. The motifs found on Beni Ourain rugs are abstracted representations of the world and landscapes surrounding the people. Adhering to no rule or formal pattern, the designs on these large, plush rugs have a freshness and spontaneity found no place else.