An unusual Zayan rug, 1970s, from the western Middle Atlas with a lively design divided into five horizontal sections. Each section is based on a geometric structure with either a stringent rhythm or playful variations in the pattern. The overall design of this rug is rather lively compared to the o typical Zayan pattern, a strict lozenge network filled with small motifs. Please note: There is a small repair in the lower left part of the back side. 

The territory of the ZAYAN tribe, neighboring the Beni Mguild tribe, is located in the western Middle Atlas. The Zayan tribe is split up into eleven sub-tribes. The town Khenifra divides the tribal region into two zones: a larger part in the southwestern Middle Atlas and a small mountain region northeast of Khenifra. The typical knotted Zayan rug is brick red with a lozenge network containing small diamond motifs and has a high pile (up to 10cm/3’9“). The pattern is usually only visible on the back side and tends to be rather formal in execution. It is rather rare to encounter examples with freer designs.