Rabat Long Rug

Moroccan carpet weaving has a long but ambiguous history. In comparison to examples from the 20th century, few 19th century or earlier Moroccan pieces survive. Rabat seems to have been a major center for workshop production throughout the 19th century. Interestingly, though, the designs and motifs used in these antique Rabat pieces have little to do with North African prototypes. Indeed, this piece uses a selection of border elements, such as Ottoman tulips and other blossom types seemingly copied from various central Anatolian village rugs. the niche design of the field is also reminiscent of Konya or Kirshehir Anatolian types of the 18th and 19th centuries. Other Rabat pieces even make use of designs copied from south Persian tribal rugs. The intense and diverse natural dyes as well as the soft wool and large knots of this piece, however, are quintessentially Moroccan.