Moroccan Leather

Since the 16th century, when merchant ships left Moroccan shores laden with exotic goods bound for Europe, the word maroquinerie (Moroccan leatherware) has been synonymous with quality leather goods throughout fashionable courts and houses of Europe. The tradition lives on, with the process of leatherworking virtually unchanged. Skins of cow, camel, and goat still are dyed and dried by hand in colorful vats located in Fez and Marrakech, where whole districts are reserved for tanners. Following old tradition, skilled hands craft all manner of products from wallets and desk sets to babouches (slippers) and leather poufs (ottomans). In the Rif Mountains, artisans of Tetouan, Chefchaouen, and Taghzout design shoulder bags, satchels, leather-covered earthenware, plates, and belts. In Marrakech, one can discover antique camel saddles as well as contemporary leather clothing and accessories to rival European designers and styles.