The Berber collection is the heart of the ABURY collection, with shoulder bags such as the ABURY Berber Bag, clutches and pouches that captivate with their delicate beauty, deeply rooted craftsmanship and sustainable materials such as cactus silk. These products tell the story of Morocco's Berbers, an indigenous community that has preserved remarkable artisanal traditions for generations.
© Photo by Bernd Kolb
A Glimpse into the Past: Who Are the Berbers?
The Berbers, also known as the Imazighen - 'free people' - are the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa. Despite numerous attempts to suppress their culture, they have preserved their language and traditions over the millennia, which are a unique blend of African, European, Oriental and Mediterranean influences.
Today, many Berbers live as farmers in Morocco's mountains and valleys, while their history as nomads and traders continues to define their cultural heritage. Their trade routes linked West Africa with northern cities, bringing precious goods from the Sahara to the region.
© Photo via ABURY
The Magic of Cactus Silk in Moroccan Handicrafts
Moroccan craftsmanship is an extraordinary combination of aesthetics and history. Each technique reflects centuries of tradition passed down from generation to generation.
A hallmark of Berber art is the use of natural materials such as leather, wool, stone, wood and cactus silk. The latter, an eco-friendly alternative to traditional textiles, is made from agave fibres. These fibres are meticulously spun, dyed and finished by hand. The natural colours are derived from plant-based dyes, which not only minimise the environmental impact, but also give the finished products a unique, earthy elegance.
With its soft, lustrous texture, cactus silk provides the perfect canvas for the Berber's intricate embroidery. The rich patterns draw on traditional symbols that reflect both nature and culture: leaves, birds and geometric shapes such as zigzags and triangles tell stories passed down through generations.
© Photo via pixabay.com
The Art of Berber Embroidery
Berber embroidery is an ancient art form with roots deep in the past. Originally practised exclusively by women, it has long served as a source of income in hard times. In the 20th century, hand embroidery experienced a renaissance and was recognised as a cultural treasure. Today, however, it is threatened by the rise of mass production.
ABURY is actively working to preserve this tradition by supporting artisans and combining their skills with contemporary design ideas. The result is the Berber Collection, which combines traditional craftsmanship with modern style.
© Photo by Mohamed Smey
Berber Embroidery and ABURY Designs: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
The Berber collection symbolises the fusion of past and present. International designers collaborate with artisans like Monsieur Omar, who meticulously creates the intricate embroidery patterns in his workshop. In an exclusive interview with ABURY, Monsieur Omar explains how these creations embody the beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship while building a cultural bridge between worlds.
The Importance of Preserving Berber Artisanal Heritage
Berber embroidery is not only an important cultural heritage, but also a sustainable source of income for local artisans. Each product in the Berber Collection helps to keep this tradition alive while improving the economic situation of the artisans.
The synergy of material, craftsmanship and history makes the Berber Collection a symbol of sustainable elegance and cultural diversity.
Share: