Berber Wrap (Handira)

Woman s shawl, or handira, worn by the Beni Ouarain people of the Middle Atlas Mountains.The handiras have always been regarded as very precious objects because they indicate the wealth and status of the wearer. The finest examples take up to two years of work. When worn with the long cords facing the inside this type of shawls provides insulation and warmth. When worn the other way they compliment the mostly white festive women s kaftans of the region. The flat side features a linear pattern with diamond and lozenge shapes in black and white with red and yellow accents.