A monumental Beni Ouarain, 1960s-1970s, from the western edge of the Beni Ouarain tribal territory with a minimalist design. The rugs of sub-tribes Zerarda and the neighboring Ait Ighezrane are most often characterized by a lozenge network that peeks through the pile. In this example, the weaver chose to reveal the lozenge pattern in the lower section, in contrast to the upper section, where the pattern is hidden in the ivory colored field. Particular details such as the dotted line along the left edge and a few charcoal colored knots peeking through the light colored field add to the overall attractiveness. This elegant subdued rug in an impressive format is looking for an owner that has the right space for it.

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 The knotted rugs from the Beni Ouarain, originally made to use as beds, are known for their exceptional quality of wool, a high pile (up to 4 cm/ 1.57 in) and a classic lozenge pattern in dark brown or black on a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.