Maha Flatweave

Vintage Zanafi Flatweave

Size: 6'-7" x 10' (2.00 x 3.04 m)
Rug Style: Zanafi Flatweave
Pile: Flat 
Materials: 100% "live" wool; indigo stone for dye.

This rug was woven by a group of artisans who reside in a village just outside of Beni M'rirt.  Keltouma and her daughter Soukina lead this group of 25 artisans from a Village just outside Beni M’rirt, located in the Middle Atlas Mountains. Founded in the early 2000’s, the collective makes medium to high hand-knot rugs, as well as an adaption of the Zanafi weaving technique you see here.

The origins of the Zanafi technique originate from the High Atlas Mountains. This technique requires the highest level of skill and concentration because each row is created with an intricate counting system.

While the more traditional Zanafis, made in the Southeast, showcase a reversible design, this adapted technique here in the Middle Atlas Mountains are made only with designs facing one side.

This vintage rug was made roughly 20 years ago. The repetitive design motifs is said to represent a variety of Amazigh symbols, such as protection and respect.