an african word meaning beautiful. this collection embodies the elemental natural geometry found in Tuareg mats. traditionally these mats were used to create nomadic huts, providing shelter from the elements. the zuri collection celebrates the beautiful symbols of the tuareg people.
the tuareg are a smaller sect of the berber people who predominantly inhabit northern africa. the tuaregs share common cultural aspects with the berbers in their way of life as their economy revolves around trans-saharan trade. this created a significant impact on their art, including textiles.
these mats have been hand-woven by women for thousands of years, using convenient accessible materials such as palms and reeds. once completing the base, they would then decorate them with intricate leather strands of camel or goat leather often adorned with powerful symbols.
the nomadic huts constructed from these mats are pivotal in their survival, protecting them from the heat of the sahara.
