The tent poles used by nomadic tribes are long wooden sticks carved and engraved with ethnic designs. When the Tuareg set up camp for the night, they used these long pieces of wood to set up and hold their tents or to hang and display utensils.
Under the name of the tent peg, there are various long carved and decorated wooden sticks. I noticed some differences I will explain a little further on.
In the meantime, let’s have a look at these gorgeous people, also called the “blue people,” from their blue indigo-dyed clothes that fade on their skin.
Tuareg Tribes and Sahrawi People
The Tuareg are ancient people living in the Sahara, the largest desert in the world. This nomadic and pastoral nation travels over several countries, including Algeria, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger. The Sahrawi nomads of Morocco are not strictly speaking Tuareg, but the two civilizations have similarities.
The main concentrations of Moroccan nomads are found in the southwestern part of the country. The Sahrawi are composed of many tribes in a combination of Berbers and Bedouins. They extend from Morocco to Mauritania and part of Algeria. They are mainly dromedary or small livestock breeders.
They move in search of pastures and live in tents woven either out of wool and hair or out of vegetable materials (doum or esparto).
The women wear the Mehlfa, a long cloth that covers the body and the head. The men wear the darâa robe (a ) and the precious Litham which protects from the sun.
In the vast Saharan desert, the Tuareg cross the boundaries of several countries, so it is not surprising to find as many models and styles as different tribes.
I have tried to find out what the meanings or uses of the different stakes are. Here is some information that I could obtain directly from Moroccan Sahrawis or through my research on the subject. But if you have any more knowledge on the subject, you can leave me a comment.
Despite their differences, or precisely because of their differences, they all have a unique charm. Turned into an original tribal ornament, they add exoticism and ethnicity to interiors.
Tuareg Tent Pegs
Some Tuareg camp stakes found in southern Morocco or neighboring Mauritania are relatively thin; long wooden sticks or poles engraved with tribal motifs and ending in a pointed tip.
The most beautiful specimens are put in front of the tents to mark the entrance of the nomadic accommodation. Others are used to maintain the nomadic tent or to separate the living spaces with sails or drapes. But also to hang daily implements or clothes.
The tent is the woman’s domain. When a woman gets married, she brings the tent, furniture, and household equipment as a dowry.
Depending on the Tuareg tribe making the sculpture, the poles can feature different shapes and symbols, as well as more elaborate sculptures.
In conclusion, the stakes and poles used in the installation of the tents exist in multiple forms, all unique and symbolic of the region and tribe from which they originate.
The Sahrawi Luggage Carrier
They are commonly known as Tuareg tent poles. In fact, these carved sticks, engraved with tribal geometric patterns, form the uprights of a well-thought-out structure that serves as a luggage rack as well as a table or a camel palanquin. Their bodies are wide and flat. They are those frequently found in Morocco, heritage of the Moroccan Sahara tribes.
The frame comprises four legs of Jdari wood (Rhus tripartita). This resistant and rustic Saharan wood is carved and engraved by a skilled craftsman.
One end is forked, where one of the four corners of the frame rests. The other end is sharpened like a mushroom head so the structure does not sink into the sand.
One side is decorated with tribal geometric patterns and the back is free of any decoration. Eight wooden crossbars solidify the structure. Thin strips of leather (sheepskin or goat skin) tie the construction together; small pieces of these ties are sometimes found on our models.
Old load carrier of the Moroccan south taken from the Exhibition catalogue Splendeurs du Maroc by Ivo Grammet for the Museum of African Arts of Tervuren (Belgium)
This versatile luggage rack is still used today, despite industrialization and the exodus of nomads to the cities. It remains a symbolic and essential element of the nomadic culture.
This luggage carrier element is usually called a tent peg or pole. I am particularly fond of this kind of object. Turning this everyday piece of work into an ethnic art piece adds an extra charm. Not to mention the unique geometric motifs and symbolism of these carved sticks.
Our carved palanquin sticks are to be found on our Ethnic Latitude collection.
The Spinning Spindles
Tent pegs can also be confused with some Moroccan spindles for wool (morzl).
These wooden sticks were used to spin wool, they also can be long and thin.
Old spindles of the High Atlas taken from the Exhibition catalogue Splendeurs du Maroc by Ivo Grammet for the Museum of African Arts of Tervuren (Belgium)
I found this long carved stick thinking it was a tent peg, but it could also look like an antique spindle. See it on our selection of tent poles.
The Tent Pegs in Home Decor
Ethnic and tribal artifacts can add a warm and cozy note to an environment. They go with various aesthetics, because there are as many ethnic and unusual objects as there are ethnic groups in the world. You will always find an ethnic piece that speaks to you and that will fit your decor.
Obviously, the carved wood sculpture will fit perfectly into an ethnic or bohemian chic ambiance where it will join other elements reminding of travel and exoticism.
The tent pole’s imperfect texture and old-world charm will balance the clean lines of contemporary or modern furniture. All while respecting the color code.
As a tribal art object, the Tuareg tent picket will pair beautifully with inherited or vintage furniture.The warm natural colors will create a more relaxed feel, introducing materials and textures in a minimalist interior.Without forgetting that the stake is an authentically artisan-made piece. In addition to the ethnic aspect of the ornament, craftmanship highlights the beauty of the material and the value of simplicity and utility.
At Riad 42, the rest area, with its clean, sober lines, is a fine example of how Tuareg tent poles can be integrated into a minimalist and soothing environment.
Mauritanian tent pegs frame a West African bed (Morocco). Elle Decor
At the Méga Loft of Essaouira, the tent poles play the funky card, just like the place. They help build a quirky atmosphereby integrating old elements to infuse character into a decor.
Their verticality dresses up the space nicely.
There is nothing I love more than pieces with history turned into unique works of art. Especially primitive and tribal household items. I always wonder what it was used for, who made it, and when it was made.
With this kind of ethnic vintage artifact, I am sure to give my home a lived-in, interesting vibe. I find myself more attached to the items I’ve found. I feel they showcase my own unique style and personality.
Did you know the differences between the Tuareg and Sahrawi stakes? Do you love the ethnic and vintage home decor as much as I do?
Sources:
– Casajus Dominique. La tente et le campement chez les Touareg Kel Ferwan. In: Revue de l’Occident musulman et de la Méditerranée, n°32, 1981. pp. 53-70
– La double vie du porte-bagages : Un objet singulier sous la tente des Maures, Sébastien Boulay, p. 112-139, https://doi.org/10.4000/africanistes.196
– Splendors of Morocco of Ivo Grammet for the account of the Museum of the African Arts of Tervuren (Belgium), 1998
Tuareg Tent Poles
The Tuareg Poles, Ethnic Tribal Artifact
The tent poles used by nomadic tribes are long wooden sticks carved and engraved with ethnic designs. When the Tuareg set up camp for the night, they used these long pieces of wood to set up and hold their tents or to hang and display utensils.
Under the name of the tent peg, there are various long carved and decorated wooden sticks. I noticed some differences I will explain a little further on.
In the meantime, let’s have a look at these gorgeous people, also called the “blue people,” from their blue indigo-dyed clothes that fade on their skin.
Tuareg Tribes and Sahrawi People
The Tuareg are ancient people living in the Sahara, the largest desert in the world. This nomadic and pastoral nation travels over several countries, including Algeria, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger. The Sahrawi nomads of Morocco are not strictly speaking Tuareg, but the two civilizations have similarities.
The main concentrations of Moroccan nomads are found in the southwestern part of the country. The Sahrawi are composed of many tribes in a combination of Berbers and Bedouins. They extend from Morocco to Mauritania and part of Algeria. They are mainly dromedary or small livestock breeders.
They move in search of pastures and live in tents woven either out of wool and hair or out of vegetable materials (doum or esparto).
The women wear the Mehlfa, a long cloth that covers the body and the head. The men wear the darâa robe (a ) and the precious Litham which protects from the sun.
Pictures: Top left Nawel Blog/Top right Gboo Morocco Tours
Bottom left Soleil de Taroudant/Bottom right Mélodie du désert
Various Engraved Wooden "Sticks"
In the vast Saharan desert, the Tuareg cross the boundaries of several countries, so it is not surprising to find as many models and styles as different tribes.
I have tried to find out what the meanings or uses of the different stakes are. Here is some information that I could obtain directly from Moroccan Sahrawis or through my research on the subject. But if you have any more knowledge on the subject, you can leave me a comment.
Despite their differences, or precisely because of their differences, they all have a unique charm. Turned into an original tribal ornament, they add exoticism and ethnicity to interiors.
Tuareg Tent Pegs
Some Tuareg camp stakes found in southern Morocco or neighboring Mauritania are relatively thin; long wooden sticks or poles engraved with tribal motifs and ending in a pointed tip.
The most beautiful specimens are put in front of the tents to mark the entrance of the nomadic accommodation. Others are used to maintain the nomadic tent or to separate the living spaces with sails or drapes. But also to hang daily implements or clothes.
The tent is the woman’s domain. When a woman gets married, she brings the tent, furniture, and household equipment as a dowry.
Tuareg tent structure
Nomadic equipment: butter gourd, large deep dish, ladle, picket, Tademekat,1984. © H. Claudot-Hawad
Depending on the Tuareg tribe making the sculpture, the poles can feature different shapes and symbols, as well as more elaborate sculptures.
In conclusion, the stakes and poles used in the installation of the tents exist in multiple forms, all unique and symbolic of the region and tribe from which they originate.
The Sahrawi Luggage Carrier
They are commonly known as Tuareg tent poles. In fact, these carved sticks, engraved with tribal geometric patterns, form the uprights of a well-thought-out structure that serves as a luggage rack as well as a table or a camel palanquin. Their bodies are wide and flat. They are those frequently found in Morocco, heritage of the Moroccan Sahara tribes.
The frame comprises four legs of Jdari wood (Rhus tripartita). This resistant and rustic Saharan wood is carved and engraved by a skilled craftsman.
One end is forked, where one of the four corners of the frame rests. The other end is sharpened like a mushroom head so the structure does not sink into the sand.
One side is decorated with tribal geometric patterns and the back is free of any decoration. Eight wooden crossbars solidify the structure. Thin strips of leather (sheepskin or goat skin) tie the construction together; small pieces of these ties are sometimes found on our models.
Old load carrier of the Moroccan south taken from the Exhibition catalogue Splendeurs du Maroc by Ivo Grammet for the Museum of African Arts of Tervuren (Belgium)
This versatile luggage rack is still used today, despite industrialization and the exodus of nomads to the cities. It remains a symbolic and essential element of the nomadic culture.
A nomadic family is moving (Boulay, 1999) Open Edition Journals
This luggage carrier element is usually called a tent peg or pole. I am particularly fond of this kind of object. Turning this everyday piece of work into an ethnic art piece adds an extra charm. Not to mention the unique geometric motifs and symbolism of these carved sticks.
Our carved palanquin sticks are to be found on our Ethnic Latitude collection.
The Spinning Spindles
Tent pegs can also be confused with some Moroccan spindles for wool (morzl).
These wooden sticks were used to spin wool, they also can be long and thin.
Old spindles of the High Atlas taken from the Exhibition catalogue Splendeurs du Maroc by Ivo Grammet for the Museum of African Arts of Tervuren (Belgium)
I found this long carved stick thinking it was a tent peg, but it could also look like an antique spindle. See it on our selection of tent poles.
The Tent Pegs in Home Decor
Ethnic and tribal artifacts can add a warm and cozy note to an environment. They go with various aesthetics, because there are as many ethnic and unusual objects as there are ethnic groups in the world. You will always find an ethnic piece that speaks to you and that will fit your decor.
Obviously, the carved wood sculpture will fit perfectly into an ethnic or bohemian chic ambiance where it will join other elements reminding of travel and exoticism.
The tent pole’s imperfect texture and old-world charm will balance the clean lines of contemporary or modern furniture. All while respecting the color code.
At Riad 42, the rest area, with its clean, sober lines, is a fine example of how Tuareg tent poles can be integrated into a minimalist and soothing environment.
Mauritanian tent pegs frame a West African bed (Morocco). Elle Decor
At the Méga Loft of Essaouira, the tent poles play the funky card, just like the place. They help build a quirky atmosphere by integrating old elements to infuse character into a decor.
Their verticality dresses up the space nicely.
There is nothing I love more than pieces with history turned into unique works of art. Especially primitive and tribal household items. I always wonder what it was used for, who made it, and when it was made.
With this kind of ethnic vintage artifact, I am sure to give my home a lived-in, interesting vibe. I find myself more attached to the items I’ve found. I feel they showcase my own unique style and personality.
Did you know the differences between the Tuareg and Sahrawi stakes? Do you love the ethnic and vintage home decor as much as I do?
Sources:
– Casajus Dominique. La tente et le campement chez les Touareg Kel Ferwan. In: Revue de l’Occident musulman et de la
Méditerranée, n°32, 1981. pp. 53-70
– La double vie du porte-bagages : Un objet singulier sous la tente des Maures, Sébastien Boulay, p. 112-139, https://doi.org/10.4000/africanistes.196
– Splendors of Morocco of Ivo Grammet for the account of the Museum of the African Arts of Tervuren (Belgium), 1998