Fatma Karoui

Tapis and Kairouan, two inseparable names Fatma Karoui

For centuries, Berber art carpets have been made according to the same traditions, on the same types of looms. The different models and ornaments all have a symbolic origin related to the religion, beliefs and imagination of Berber culture. They have been transmitted through generations from mother to daughter. The authentic Berber carpets are unique pieces handmade for domestic use and in the purest tradition. This tradition has been threatened since the turn of the century by the progressive sedentarisation of the great nomadic tribes, but at the same time there has been a revival of the forms of expression and materials used. Traditionally, Berber carpets are made of wool. The two types of woollen carpets most represented are those with black geometric patterns on a white background and fairly thick wool, as well as those more colourful and shaven wool. We can thus affirm that the main art in the Maghreb countries is weaving, and this has been demonstrated since ancient times by history and science through several researchers, anthropologists, ethnologists and historians, who have studied the question.