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
- Handmade
- Durable and Practical
- Free Worldwide Shipping
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Embrace the Spirit of the Desert with a Mauritanian Tuareg Mat
Bring the warmth and mystery of the Sahara into your home with this Mauritanian Tuareg mat—a compact treasure woven by hand and rooted in centuries of nomadic tradition. At 144 × 114 cm (4.8 × 3.8 ft), this piece is more than just decor. It’s a cultural artifact, crafted to endure, and meant to inspire.
Handwoven by Mauritanian Tuareg mat Artisans
This authentic mat is handcrafted by Tuareg artisans—members of a nomadic Berber ethnic group known for their resilience and deep-rooted traditions across the Sahara, including Mauritania. Using centuries-old techniques, each artisan weaves stories of survival, symbolism, and connection to nature into every strand.
What makes this item special is not just the design, but the human touch behind it. No two pieces are identical. Every woven line, every stitched border, carries the fingerprint of its maker.
Traditional Materials with Natural Beauty
Made from eco-friendly, locally sourced materials—such as palm leaves, reeds, and hand-cut leather strips—this Tuareg mat speaks the language of the earth. The muted, sun-baked tones blend seamlessly with most interior aesthetics, from bohemian to rustic to minimalist.
Geometric patterns, often embedded with symbolic meaning, form the centerpiece of each mat’s design. These motifs are not merely decorative—they reflect Tuareg cosmology, social structure, and storytelling traditions.
Compact Yet Powerful in Presence
Despite its modest dimensions, this piece holds weight. It brings depth and warmth to small spaces like entryways, reading corners, or under a coffee table. Lightweight and flexible, it can also be easily rolled or transported, making it a great choice for vanlifers, travelers, or design enthusiasts who frequently refresh their space.
Its compact size makes it a versatile accent—ideal for apartment living, offices, or layered over a larger neutral rug to create a curated, textured effect.
A Multifunctional Work of Art
The Mauritanian Tuareg mat isn’t confined to one purpose. Traditionally used for sitting, praying, or tent decoration, its applications today are just as varied:
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Wall Hanging: Showcase it as a piece of heritage artwork
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Floor Accent: Use in high-traffic areas for its durability
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Prayer or Meditation Mat: Bring spiritual depth to your quiet space
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Layered Design Element: Combine with textiles or jute rugs for a rich, bohemian look
Its cultural flexibility makes it perfect for people who value both function and artistry.
Sustainably Made, Ethically Sourced
Every purchase of this handcrafted item supports ethical trade and empowers artisan communities in Mauritania. These craftspeople rely on traditional methods passed down through generations—techniques that emphasize durability, quality, and natural sustainability.
You’re not just buying a rug; you’re investing in the preservation of an ancient way of life and helping it continue into the modern world.
Care Instructions
Because the materials are organic and untreated, this mat should be handled with gentle care:
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Wipe gently with a dry or lightly damp cloth
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Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading
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Store rolled in a cool, dry space when not in use
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Avoid harsh cleaning agents or vacuuming, as they may damage delicate weaves
Regular light maintenance will ensure your mat remains vibrant and intact for years to come.
The Legacy Behind the Weave
As noted in this Smithsonian article on African textiles, Tuareg mats are among the most culturally significant woven items in North Africa. They embody a combination of function, symbolism, and identity.
When you place a Tuareg mat in your home, you're embracing a living tradition that spans thousands of miles and generations. It’s not just about design—it’s about dignity, resilience, and connection to a vast, beautiful desert world.
Final Thoughts: A Heritage Piece with Global Appeal
The Mauritanian Tuareg mat represents more than handmade craftsmanship—it offers a connection to human history, cultural pride, and desert mystique. According to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Tuareg artistry reflects a complex interplay of cultural symbolism, nomadic lifestyle, and refined design aesthetics that transcend generations. Whether you’re looking to decorate mindfully, collect ethically, or simply enjoy beautiful design, this mat brings rich meaning and timeless style.
Let it ground your space with authenticity. Let it tell stories that only handmade art can tell.
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Region: Sahara Desert and Mauritania
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Style: Ethnic
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Age: approx 1970s - Vintage. Clean and ready to use. Signs of age and wear are expected.
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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?
For US-customers, there is no customs fees (due to An agreement that went into effect on January 1, 2006, designed to create open and fair trade between the United States and Morocco.) For other international orders shipped outside of Morocco, please be aware that your country's customs office may impose import duties, taxes, or fees. These potential charges are the responsibility of the customer. Customs policies vary widely by country, so we recommend contacting your local customs office for specific information on potential duties before placing your order.
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.