7 x 8 Vintage Boujad Moroccan Rug 20920

20920 Vintage Boujad Moroccan Rug, 07'00 x 08'00.

This hand-knotted wool vintage Boujad Moroccan rug, woven by the Berber tribes of Morocco, is a remarkable example of the intricate symbolism and rich cultural heritage of the region. The vivid red backdrop serves as the canvas for a dynamic composition of tribal symbols and geometric patterns, each of which carries deep meaning and cultural significance. The central diamond motif is surrounded by colorful eight-point stars and lozenges, each designed to represent protection, femininity, and the cyclical nature of life. The symmetry and structure of the design evoke a sense of harmony, yet each symbol within the composition tells its own unique story of fertility, womanhood, and the enduring strength of the Berber people.

Among the many motifs woven into this vintage Boujad rug, the eight-point stars stand out as symbols of happiness, protection and guidance. These stars, often associated with the heavens, are believed to guard against evil and bring good fortune. The lozenge and diamond shapes featured throughout are connected to fertility and conception, while the fusion of triangles hints at the balance between masculine and feminine energies. The Burdock symbol, a deeply significant motif in Berber art, often represents protection against the evil eye. These symbols are not merely decorative, but rather functional and deeply rooted in the cultural beliefs of the Berber tribes.

The zigzag chevron lines and the camels further amplify the rug’s symbolism. Camels, revered for their endurance and adaptability in the harsh desert environment, represent resilience and the ability to overcome adversity. The Chevron zigzag lines add movement and energy to the design, symbolizing the continuous flow of life and the resilience of the Berber people through generations. These esoteric motifs work together to form a cohesive narrative that celebrates the strength, fertility, and protection that is central to Berber culture.

The border of the rug, framed by thin steel-blue and beige lines, marks the boundary between the male and female motifs. In traditional Moroccan rug-making, male motifs often appear on the outer edges, creating a protective frame around the central, feminine elements. This composition can be interpreted as symbolizing the sacred sanctuary of the family, where the male’s presence ensures protection, and the female symbols represent the nurturing and life-giving force of the household. While seemingly simple in design, this vintage Boujad rug encapsulates a complex narrative of fertility, family, and the enduring strength of the Berber culture. Its beauty, both in form and in symbolism, elevates it beyond a mere decorative piece, making it a timeless treasure that speaks of heritage and tradition.

• Rendered in variegated shades of red, ruby red, tangerine, orange, glaucous, bluish-grey, hot pink, pink, lavender, purple, beige, taupe, and tan with other accent colors.
• Abrash.
• Hand-knotted wool.
• Made in Morocco.
• Berber Tribes of Morocco. Boujad.
• Measures: 07'00 x 08'00.
• Date: 1970's. Late 20th Century.