Colors have always had an eminent position in history; their symbolism can dramatically vary between cultures. Furthermore, colors have a deep psychological dimension as their choice can vividly reflect one’s psyche and personality. Moroccan decorative art is characterized by the prominent use of six colors: White, Black, Blue, Green, Red And Yellow. The symbolism of colors in the Moroccan culture is greatly derived from Islam.
White is associated with wisdom, honor, dignity, purity and creative thinking; Sufi followers consider white as an inner light and describe it as the light of divine secrets. Moroccans wear white clothes in their joyful and sorrowful ceremonies, and in so doing, apply the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammed who addresses Muslims saying: “Wear white clothes, ask the living to wear white and shroud the dead in them; they are the best clothes.”. On the other hand, Black is sometimes related to unclean and satanic things; in fact, there are still some Moroccan families that refuse to wear black clothing or use it in furniture and decorating.
Green is associated with nature and fertility. It also symbolizes prosperity, which explains the Moroccan tradition of sewing a green cover for the shrines of saints to seek their blessings. Blue is associated with the absolute and the infinite and it also embodies tranquility and peace of mind. Red is associated with exorcising evil spirits and yellow symbolizes the wilting of objects as their near end.
Will the symbolic colors or Morocco influence your future fine painting and decorating decisions? We’d like to hear your comments.