Mlouka's Indigo Hanbel

The Association Le Vieux Village is a beautiful collective of women artisans just outside of Tazenakht. This Association is a true family affair. Mlouka, the matriarch of the collective, has passed the art of weaving down to her daughters, Naima and Fatima, daughters-in-law, Latifa and Meriem, cousins, and villagers. All of the rugs from Le Vieux are made from 100% live wool that was brushed, carded, and hand-spun by the women of the Association.

Number of Artisans: 40
Association Founded: 2001
Region: Siroua
Rug Techniques: Low Hand-Knot, Boucherouite, Kharita, Zanafi, Flatweave, Intricate Hanbel

This style is thought to originate from the area in and around the Village of Tazenakht, an area rich with a weaving history. While the majority of this weave is flat, the design accents are either embroidered or have a slightly higher pile, giving these pieces texture and dimension. Every design element comes entirely from the artisan’s imagination. The design elements within this technique tend to depict an array of symbolism in the Amazigh culture.