Vintage Moroccan Kilim
Where do Vintage Moroccan Kilims Come From?
When talking about kilim rugs, it begins in Turkey since the word kilim itself is Turkish. It describes any number of textiles that rely on a flat weaving technique that results in a pileless finish. This defines the kilim as it shows it is woven and not the result of thousands of individually tied and knotted threads. The Vintage Moroccan Kilim is a prime example of one of the oldest types of traditional Moroccan tribal weaving.
With more than 45 different tribal regions in Morocco, there are just as many styles in the kilim rugs of the past. Over the centuries Moroccan kilim rugs have evolved into distinct patterns, materials and colors depending upon the tribes creating them, with the majority of kilim rugs coming from tribes of the High Atlas Mountains.
What Vintage Moroccan Kilims are Made Of
A vintage Moroccan kilim is going to be defined by its bold colors, use of intricate patterns and lattice work and by an innovation – the use of pile bands on two sides of the rug. Interestingly enough, a student of vintage Moroccan Kilim rugs could learn how to identify them based on the patterns passed from generation to generation.
However, all use natural dyes of various hues, feature the dense weaving, and often use strong geometric patterns and textures, which is why they are so popular with designers of all styles.
How to Care for Vintage Moroccan Kilims
Though they are durably made and designed to stand up to many decades of use, they cannot be exposed to aggressive detergents or cleaners.
In fact, if your Vintage Moroccan Kilim needs cleaning, you’re best advised to call a pro.
You don’t want to ruin something that could become a valuable family heirloom. At NYCleaners, we know how to care for kilim rugs.
