Fatima lead the design of this beautiful Kilim style rug and worked with two other women to bring it to life. The Kilim style originates from the Mid-Atlas region, which is where Fatima grew up, though she now lives near the Todgha Gorge. The three artisans spent four months weaving this intricate mashrabiya-style pattern. A mashrabiya is an architectural style of window dressing, popular in Arabic homes; intricate lattice work surrounds oriel, or bay-style windows with stained glass accents to create shade while still letting light enter the home. This window style allows the women of the household to see the happenings on the street, without being seen themselves. In this textile, the geometric pattern mimics the lattice work, while the colors evoke stained glass. The finished piece is meant to protect your home from the eyes of unsavory characters.
The women used 100% live sheep’s wool to weave this piece, and they soaked the yarn over multiple days to create these deep hues. The dark blue color comes from indigo, while the warmer accent colors come from henna, and the white is natural, undyed wool.
