Association Tithrite · Ait Hamza
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
SIZE
2m 11cm x 88cm x 1cm — 6ft 11in x 2ft 11in x 1in
WEIGHT
2500 g
MATERIALS
Cotton Thread and Synthetically Dyed Wool
PRODUCT ID
#19926
Hanbels are detailed bohemian style handmade rugs. Thel carpets have a long history in Ait Hamza. Even before the arrival of Islam in the 9th century, Hanbals were gifts given only to wealthy, noble families in the area. The value of a Hanbal comes from their unique beauty and the incredible skill required to make one. It can take a woman over one month to complete an average sized Hanbal. Over time, the Hanbal evolved from a gift reserved for nobility, and became one of main ways families in Ait Hamza generated income for their basic needs. This tradition still continues today as many women depend on Hanbals as their sole source of income.
COLORS IN THIS PIECE
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MEET THE MAKERS
Nazha Ajdaa
Nazha was born in 1960. She is married and is a mother of four kids. One of her neighbours taught her how to weave and then she was able to support her family financially. She is the eldest of her siblings so she had to help her parents raise her siblings and educate them. She taught her sisters how to weave. She supports her husband as well. She uses the money she earns to buy her medicines because she suffers from high blood pressure. Nazha likes to be involved in social community service. She hopes to sell more to be able to contribute more to her community.
VISIT THE VILLAGE
Association Tithrite hosts visitors in their village — share tea, watch the artisans at work, and see the craft up close. Visits start at $14 per person, and most of it goes straight to the group.
Ait Hamza, Morocco · about 1 heure 46 min from Fez
