BENI OUARAIN N° 251BO


An older Beni Ouarain, 1960s-70s, from the northeastern Middle Atlas with a reduced minimalist design. The rather wild surface, incorporating one single knot with a recycled textile scrap, together with the simplified geometric pattern, merge a tribal spirit with the elegant austerity of a bauhaus design. Please note: This rug has a slightly looser structure compared to other Beni Ouarain rugs.


Dimensions
270 × 190 cm
8'8" × 6'2"
Material
100% wool
Pile
low to medium
Condition
very good

Price
sold




The tribal territory of the BENI OUARAIN includes most of the entire high mountain region of the northeastern part in the Middle Atlas. The Beni Ouarain are a confederation of seventeen tribes living in the area. Their territory is bordered by the Jebel Bou Iblane Range in the south and southeast and by the Jebel Tazekka in the north. The knotted rugs from the Beni Ouarain, originally made to use as beds, are known for their exceptional quality of wool, a high pile (up to 4 cm/ 1.57 in) and a classic lozenge pattern in dark brown or black on a white ground. Similar pile rugs with the same color scheme have also been made among other groups in some of the neighboring regions. The rugs of the Beni Alaham, Marmoucha and Ait Seghrouchène are often confused with the ones of the Beni Ouarain even if their patterns are quite particular.