An article on the natural colors used in the traditional Moroccan Berber rug
Moroccan Berber rugs are some of the most celebrated and sought-after carpets in the world. They are known for their intricate designs, durability, and most importantly, the use of natural colors. These rugs are traditionally hand-woven by Berber women in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, and the colors used in the weaving process are derived from natural sources, such as plants, minerals, and insects. In this article, we will explore the natural colors used in the traditional Moroccan Berber rug and the process of obtaining them.
One of the most prevalent colors used in the Berber rug is indigo blue. Indigo is obtained from the leaves of the indigo plant, which is native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa. The leaves are soaked in water and fermented to produce a blue pigment that is then used to dye the wool. This process is repeated several times to deepen the color and obtain different shades of blue, ranging from light sky blue to dark navy blue.
Another popular color used in the Berber rug is red, which is obtained from the cochineal insect. The female cochineal insect is crushed to extract a bright red pigment, which is then mixed with water and applied to the wool. The color is fixed by adding an acidic substance, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to the dyeing solution. The result is a vibrant red hue that is commonly used in Berber rugs.
Yellow is also a frequently used color in Berber rugs and is obtained from the use of saffron or pomegranate skins. Saffron is a spice derived from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus flower. It is used to add flavor and color to food, and it can also be used to dye wool. Pomegranate skins are also used to produce a yellow color, and the dyeing process involves soaking the skins in water to extract the pigment, which is then mixed with alum to fix the color.
Green is another color that can be found in Berber rugs and is obtained from the use of mint or henna. Mint leaves are boiled in water to produce a green dye that is used to color the wool. Henna is a plant that is traditionally used to dye hair and skin, but it can also be used to dye wool to produce a green color.
Finally, brown and black are obtained from the use of walnut shells, oak bark, and other natural materials. These colors are often used as accents or to create contrast in the designs of Berber rugs.
In conclusion, the natural colors used in the traditional Moroccan Berber rug are a reflection of the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the Berber people. The use of natural dyes not only produces beautiful colors but also creates a sustainable and environmentally friendly product. Berber rugs are a testament to the creativity and skill of the Berber women who have been weaving them for centuries, and the use of natural colors adds to the unique and timeless quality of these carpets.
https://www.etsy.com/shop/RUGSAZILAL?ref=seller-platform-mcnav
website
https://rug99.com/
