This is a wedding blanket, called a Handira. This piece was woven by six women from Ait Barra. It took two months to complete. The rich yellow color comes from a spice we were unable to translate, called tiziri and the embroidered stripes were dyed with henna, pomegranate and saffron. Wedding blankets are usually made by a bride’s female relatives, or by the women of her village. Traditionally, brides wore the blankets as capes on their way to the wedding, but these days they’re used to wrap gifts for the newlyweds. The blankets are a symbolic blessing for the marriage, and after the wedding, they’re often passed on to other couples to continue to share the blessing and joy. This blanket was used for a wedding two years ago and again for a proposal about five months ago. These special textiles can be used as blankets, rugs, wall hangings or headboards. No matter how you choose to display it, this beautiful set is a welcome ray of Moroccan sunshine.

--technical details
Size: 6.14 x 8.6 ft
Rug Style: Wedding Blanket (Handira)
Pile: Flat with sequins
Materials: 100% live lamb’s wool, natural and spice dyes