Zardakhan (Brocade) Fabric in Fez

Zardakhan, or Brocade, is one of Morocco’s authentic fabrics that has been cherished in Moroccan culture for generations. It is typically crafted from luxurious materials such as silk and gold threads. This fabric is used to produce a variety of traditional items, including kaftans, belts, bed covers, pillow covers, and curtains. Moroccan families take pride in owning heirloom pieces of Zardakhan or Brocade, often wo during family celebrations and special events. These pieces are especially admired for their famous pattes, known as khrib and bahja. Weaving Zardakhan requires specialised skills and the expertise of various craftsmen, including: • Zwaq: Designing the decorations • Mdewar: Spinning silk over a bamboo stick to create intricate decorative pattes • Jbad: Thread puller, manipulating the threads to create the decorative fabric This craft is also connected to other fields, such as carpentry, where a niyar (carpenter) crafts the loom, known as lmerma. The loom consists of a wooden frame equipped with beams, chains, blades, pulleys, and handles for controlling weight. Zardakhan weaving was once widespread in Moroccan cities, employing many craftsmen to meet the high demand for its products. However, in recent decades, the number of craftsmen has declined, prompting initiatives from conceed sectors to preserve this unique heritage.