A subtle Beni Ouarain, circa 1980s, from the northeastern Middle Atlas with a hidden pattern in dark grey. Four chains of lozenges are vertically running up through the open field of which some fibers mischievously peek through the pile on the front. The resemblance with an animal pelt, the unevenness on the edges and the overall reduced design are the most remarkable characteristics of this rug. Please note: The wool in this rug has a slight reddish tint from the iron oxide in the soil.

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 The knotted rugs from the Beni Ouarain, originally made to use as beds, are known for their exceptional quality of wool, a high pile (up to 4 cm/ 1.57 in) and a classic lozenge pattern in dark brown or black on a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