History

Morocco is a country of immense diversity and natural beauty - a blending of vivid sensuality and intense spirituality. This visually sophisticated nation possesses a highly distinctive landscape and culture. It is separated from Europe by the Strait of Gibraltar, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Mediterranean to the north. Algeria is to the east; Mauritania and the Sahara Desert are to the south. The Rif Mountains hug the Mediterranean coast and the Atlas Mountains form the country's spine.

The brilliant arts and crafts of Morocco is an exotic mixture of heritages - Berber, Arab, French, English, Spanish. They combine together in a country that remains refreshingly removed from the rest of the world. Traditional Moroccan architectural and artistic craftsmanship continues to flourish and some 20% of the working population earn their livelihoods in craft production.

Moroccan Ceramic Bowl
There are different types of Moroccan ceramics produced: unglazed pottery, originally for domestic and utilitarian use; painted and glazed decorative ceramics, which were used as plates and bowls; and loose cut tiles. Moroccan pottery is also tied to its people's belief of magic and evil spirits. In the Middle Atlas, pottery was used to predict the type of year a person was going to have, either a successful year or not. People would place a couscous steamer on a tent pole and then push it off. If it only breaks into a few large pieces, then the year will be good. If it falls and shatters into many tiny pieces then winter will be awful and hard times are ahead.

Modern made ceramic pieces are often cobalt blue designs that shine off a brilliant white background. Designs are often geometric shapes with leaves flowers in the pattern. The many different shapes of pots and vases make them incredibly versatile for interior decorating. Smaller flat pieces can be placed on tables, while Moroccan vases put in corners of a room to fill excess space. Each piece of Moroccan Fes (Fez) pottery is unique because of the firing technique used to create them. Once fired, there is no way to predict how the glaze will settle. Two pots made with the same glaze could easily come out two different shades. This adds to the dedication and skill required for this art form.

Exquisite Moroccan ceramics and tiles blend into any home and create a one-of-a-kind Moroccan style decor touch. No matter how big or small the piece is, it is bound to attract expressions of awe and admiration.