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Small Mauritanian Tuareg Mat 4.8 x 3.8 ft / 144 x 114 cm

Small Mauritanian Tuareg Mat 4.8 x 3.8 ft / 144 x 114 cm

Regular price $1,200.00 USD
Regular price $2,400.00 USD Sale price $1,200.00 USD
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  • Handmade
  • Durable and Practical
  • Free Worldwide Shipping

Embrace the Spirit of the Sahara desert Tuareg rug

Bring the warmth and mystery of the Sahara into your home with this Sahara desert Tuareg rug—a compact treasure woven by hand and rooted in centuries of nomadic tradition. At 144 × 114 cm (4.8 × 3.8 ft), this vintage piece is more than decor. It’s a cultural artifact, crafted to endure, inspire, and connect you to desert heritage.

Handwoven by Tuareg Artisans of Mauritania

This authentic mat is handcrafted by Tuareg artisans, members of a nomadic Berber group known for their resilience and artistry across the Sahara. Using time-honored weaving techniques, each mat tells a story of survival, symbolism, and harmony with nature.

No two mats are ever the same. Every woven strand and stitched border carries the unique fingerprint of its maker, making each piece a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Natural Beauty in Sahara desert Tuareg rug

Crafted from eco-friendly, locally sourced materials like palm leaves, reeds, and hand-cut leather strips, this Tuareg mat reflects the beauty of natural living. Its muted, sun-baked tones blend seamlessly with bohemian, rustic, or minimalist interiors.

The bold geometric patterns are more than decoration—they symbolize Tuareg cosmology, social structure, and storytelling traditions. For context, See where geometry meets weaving in Helena Rohner’s Weave collection highlights Tuareg artistry as a unique blend of function and symbolism that transcends time.

Compact Yet Powerful in Presence

Despite its modest size, this piece adds depth and warmth to any space. Perfect for entryways, reading corners, or under a coffee table, its lightweight form makes it easy to roll and transport. This makes it ideal for apartment living, vanlifers, or design lovers who refresh their interiors often.

Layer it over a neutral rug for a textured, curated effect, or let it shine on its own as a centerpiece.

A Multifunctional Work of Art

Traditionally, Tuareg mats have served multiple purposes—sitting, praying, or decorating tents. Today, their versatility remains:

  • Wall Hanging: Showcase it as heritage artwork.

  • Floor Accent: Durable enough for high-traffic areas.

  • Meditation Mat: Create a peaceful spiritual corner.

  • Layered Design Element: Combine with textiles or jute rugs for a bohemian vibe.

Its cultural flexibility makes it both functional and collectible.

Sustainably Made, Ethically Sourced

Every purchase supports ethical trade and empowers Mauritanian artisan communities. By choosing this mat, you help preserve traditions passed down for generations—methods that emphasize durability, cultural pride, and sustainability.

Care Instructions

Because this mat is made from untreated organic materials, it should be handled gently:

  • Wipe with a dry or lightly damp cloth.

  • Avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent fading.

  • Store rolled in a cool, dry place.

  • Skip vacuuming or harsh cleaners—they may damage delicate weaves.

With simple care, this Tuareg mat will remain vibrant for years.

The Legacy Behind the Weave

According to the Smithsonian’s research on African textiles, Tuareg mats are among the most significant woven items in North Africa, embodying both symbolism and identity. Placing one in your home connects you to an enduring tradition of resilience and design.

Final Thoughts: A Heritage Piece with Global Appeal

The Tuareg mat is more than a handmade artifact—it’s a story of history, desert mystique, and artisan pride. Whether you’re decorating with mindfulness, curating ethically, or collecting cultural heritage, this mat offers timeless beauty and meaning.

Let it ground your space with authenticity. Let it tell stories only handmade art can tell.

  • Region: Sahara Desert and Mauritania

  • Style: Ethnic

  • Age: approx 1970s - Vintage. Clean and ready to use. Signs of age and wear are expected. 

  • The Tuareg mat may not lay flat at first—this is normal, as it naturally settles and flattens with regular use over time.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean my Moroccan rug?

Caring for your Moroccan rug is simple! For regular maintenance, we recommend gently vacuuming it 1-2 times a week (use a suction-only attachment, without a beater bar) and air it outside every few months. For minor spills, act quickly by blotting the area with a clean, dry cloth. If needed, use a small amount of water and a gentle soap. For deep cleaning, we strongly recommend seeking a professional rug cleaner who specializes in wool carpets to preserve the rug's natural fibers and vibrant colors for years to come.

Vacuum Regularly → Use a low setting without a beater bar to protect the fibers.
Blot Spills Immediately → Use a dry cloth for stains, gently dab with mild detergent and cold water.
Protect from Moisture → Avoid excessive humidity and use a rug pad to extend its lifespan.
Prevent Fading → Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight.
Rotate Every Few Months → Ensures even wear and longevity.
Fluff Maintain → If fibers flatten, gently brush with a soft-bristle brush.
Deep Clean → Opt for professional hand-washing every 5 years or as needed.
Sunbathe Monthly → If practical, let your rug in the sun occasionally. Sunlight's UV rays work as natural deodorizing and microbe protection.
◈ Avoid Harsh Chemicals → They can damage the natural wool fibers.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we are proud to ship our authentic Moroccan rugs to customers all over the world. We regularly ship to North America (USA & Canada), Europe, Australia, and many other destinations. If you have any questions about shipping to your specific location, please don't hesitate to contact us.

How long will my order take to arrive?

We ship via DHL Express or Aramex with FREE worldwide delivery, included at checkout. After placing your order, we typically require 2-3 days to process and dispatch your item. Expect your parcel to arrive within 6-15 business days, depending on your location. You will receive a tracking number via email as soon as your order is on its way.

Will I have to pay customs fees or import duties?

Due to recent U.S. tariff changes, imports from Morocco are subject to a 10% duty plus standard customs fees; however, under our Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) terms, we will take full responsibility for these import charges ourselves, so you won’t have to pay anything extra.

How do you package the rugs to make sure they arrive safely?

We guarantee that your rug will arrive safely and in excellent condition, having been thoroughly inspected, cleaned, and, if necessary, restored prior to dispatch. We then fold it carefully and wrap it in multiple layers of durable, weather-resistant material to ensure it is fully protected from moisture and handling during its journey to you. We take every precaution to ensure your rug arrives in perfect condition. 

What is your return policy?

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your rug, you may return it within 14 days of delivery.

To be eligible for a refund, the rug must be returned in its original, unused, and undamaged condition. Please note that for general returns, the customer is responsible for the full cost of the return shipping. We recommend using a trackable and insured shipping service.

Please remember that our rugs are handmade by artisans, not by machines. Slight variations in color, pattern, weave, and size are natural characteristics of these one-of-a-kind items. These charming imperfections are not considered defects but are part of the unique story and beauty of each piece.

Is Moroccan wool rugs durable and suitable for high-traffic areas?

Absolutely. Hand-knotted from 100% sheep wool, Moroccan rugs are renowned for their durability and resilience. Our rugs are perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and other frequently used spaces, but be sure to follow care instructions, like rotating regularly, to keep it looking its best for years.

Do newly made wool Moroccan rugs shed?

It is completely normal for a new wool rug to shed a little at first. This is a natural characteristic of high-quality wool fibres and a sign of its authenticity. This initial shedding will decrease significantly over a few weeks with regular, gentle vacuuming.

Will the rug I receive look exactly like the one in the photo?

You will receive the exact rug shown in the photos. However, please remember that these are handmade items. We do our best to capture the colours accurately, but they may vary slightly depending on your screen's lighting and calibration. Any minor variations or "imperfections" in the pattern are part of the unique story and charm of your one-of-a-kind piece.

What are your rugs made of?

Our rugs are crafted from 100% natural, locally sourced sheep's wool. The wool's quality gives the rugs their signature softness, durability, and rich texture. The foundation (or warp) of the rug is sometimes made of cotton, which provides a strong and stable base for the wool knots.