In addition to the countries of central Asia and certain countries in South America, major centres of carpet production are found in northern Africa (Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco). Morocco has succeeded in maintaining a tradition of manufacture within family units and cooperative craft workshops, although most production is now automated. Carpets are traditionally woven of linen, a symbol of protection and happiness, with silk, cotton, and sometimes camel or goat hair. The colours and designs are characteristic of the production regions, and the High Atlas mountains, where Marrakech is located, offers the warmest hues, mainly red, orange, and yellow. Ninety percent of the High Atlas carpets are created in the cities of Tazenakht and Amerzgane, primarily by women workers. The Moroccan carpet, once reserved entirely for domestic local use, has gained a worldwide reputation and today enjoys a flourishing export trade.

EARTH FROM THE AIR EXHIBITION OPENING AT OXFORD CASTLE, OXFORD 20TH SEPT-JAN