Go Wild for Textiles

Embroidery in Chefchaouen Kasbah Museum

Somehow we managed to catch only glimpses of traditional textiles on our recent trip to Morocco.  More than anything we saw though, textiles highlighted the Arab-Berber cultural mix and strongly showcased folk traditions.  It is too easy to underestimate the importance placed on textiles in the lives of Moroccan people and it is inspiring to have resources such as Jardin Marjorelle and Bert Flint’s collection available.

Wool ready for dyeing in the souk Fes

Wool appears to be the most used fibre, particularly in the home-crafted carpet industry, still competing strongly against charmless machine woven rugs.  Carpets, blankets, cushions and clothing are all still woven on domestic looms.  Hearing the clack of looms as you walk through the old medina streets is quite a moving experience.

Weaver at work Kasbar Myriem, Midelt

Traditionally, women produced domestic items whilst those offered for sale were worked by men. That is not to say that women don’t sell but I imagine it must be emotionally difficult to sell family heirlooms in tough times. Aside from usual woollen items, men wove exotic silk fabrics such as the fine brocades produced in Fes.

Try to stop at one!  Moutwatering carpets at Kashar Myriem, Midlet

Information: A quick search revealed a couple of interesting resources.

• Amazigh Textiles in Morocco (which in turn points to a number of interesting references)
• Harris, Jennifer (Ed).  5000 years of Textiles British. London: Museum Press, 1993
• Kasbar Myriem is a woman's cooperative for local Berber women supported by Franciscan Nuns.  The quality of their work is amazing. Some basic info here

Tanneries in Fes