Authentic Nomad Tuareg Straw & Leather Mat – 37″×19½″

Authentic Tuareg Straw & Leather Mat – 37″×19½″

Discover an exquisite piece of Nomad and Ethnic heritage – a genuine Tuareg Straw and Leather mat (or Tuareg Straw carpet), hand‑crafted in Niger/Mali by the skilled Tuareg artisans. This beautiful nomadic divider or prayer mat bears traditional geometric leather strip designs, capturing the essence of Tuareg culture.

• Size: 37″ (94 cm) × 19½″ (49 cm)

This authentic mat is in good condition, showing some age‑related wear and minor repairs that add to its story and charm.

Heritage & Craftsmanship

The Tuareg tribe, renowned desert nomads of northern Africa (notably Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Nigeria), have a rich history including leading camel caravans across the trans‑Saharan routes until the 20th century. Their craft traditions woven straw mats, intricate leatherwork, fine swords, and ornate jewelry reflect a deep cultural artistry.

Each straw mat is carefully handwoven from local grass, then decorated with strips of leather in traditional geometric patterns shields, stars, and interlocking motifs symbolizing protection, unity, and journey. These mats serve multiple purposes: tent dividers, seating, floor coverings, prayer mats, and even portable privacy screens.

In Tuareg art, leather is masterfully used for saddle adornments, metal decorations, jewellery, and the iconic hand‑forged swords carried by men. The leather motifs across this mat echo those found in tribal jewelry cuffs, pendants, and rings whose intricate symbols tell stories of identity and status.

By owning this mat, you bring home a living testament to the Tuareg’s Nomad and Ethnic culture a piece imbued with historical depth, spiritual resonance, and artisanal beauty.

Explore more of TribalGH’s curated Tuareg art:

• Browse our Tuareg Artifacts collection
• Discover Handmade Jewelry