Textiles in Moroccan Culture: The Historical Background to Lalla Essaydi’s Photography

Madelaine Stanley

This essay will broadly survey the history of Moroccan textiles created by women, and especially those dyed in henna.  These traditions will be examined in both urban and rural contexts. Understanding the greater historical setting for these practices will allow the exhibition viewer to critique the use of fabric in the domestic spaces, whether urban or rural, created by Lalla Essaydi.

Henna Dye: Body and Textile Painting

Moroccan Textiles: Urban Settings

Moroccan Textiles: Rural Areas

The Use of Henna Dyed Textiles in Essaydi’s work

Conclusion & Cited Sources and Suggestions for Further Reading

Click here for a .pdf of the entire essay by Madelaine Stanley.