When it comes to luxury and elegance, few materials capture the essence of both quite like Moroccan thuya wood. This rare and exotic wood, chosen by the renowned car manufacturer Rolls-Royce for its opulent interiors, is a true testament to the craftsmanship and heritage of Morocco. With its rich, warm colour and distinctive grain patterns, thuya wood has been cherished for centuries, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

The Story Behind Thuya Wood

Origins

Thuya wood, also known as Araar, hails from the western foothills of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Despite the unassuming appearance of the thuya tree itself, its roots hold a treasure trove of natural beauty. The intricate burl grain and complex markings found in the wood have made it highly sought after since Roman times. Traditionally, this wood has been synonymous with wealth and luxury, with Rolls-Royce using it as the first burled wood for its prestigious dashboards.

The thuya tree, although modest in its appearance, has deep cultural and economic significance for the Berbers of the Middle Atlas. The local economy thrives on the skills passed down through generations, where craftsmen meticulously select, harvest, and shape the thuya wood. However, the delicate nature of the wood demands precision—any misstep during the crafting process can lead to irreversible damage.

Identifying Authentic Thuya Wood

Genuine thuya wood is distinguished by its reddish-brown colour and darker, knotty whorls, often resembling burr walnut or bird’s-eye maple. When shopping for thuya wood products, it’s important to be cautious of imitations, especially larger items like dining tables or storage chests that may not be genuine. Authentic thuya carvings are typically smaller items such as boxes, bowls, placemats, and penholders, reflecting the wood’s rarity and fragility.

The Allure of Thuya’s Scent

The distinctive scent of thuya wood, which persists long after the wood is cut, has historical roots dating back to ancient Greece. The Greeks named the tree thuya, meaning “sacrifice,” and used its essence to produce incense for religious ceremonies. Today, this scent is more commonly found in aromatherapy, prized for its soothing qualities and natural ability to ward off parasites.

Sustainable Harvesting of Thuya Wood

Given the importance of thuya wood to the local economy and its limited supply, sustainability has become a priority. In the past, demand from tourists, collectors, and locals seeking impressive furnishings had endangered the thuya forests. However, since the 1990s, the Moroccan government has implemented programs to protect these precious resources. Replanting initiatives and strict control over the thuya industry ensure that this rare wood can continue to be harvested responsibly.

Artisans are now encouraged to focus on creating smaller, more delicate pieces, allowing the majority of thuya trees to reach maturity. Massive pieces, such as those favoured by ancient Romans for doorways and furnishings, have become increasingly rare. If you encounter a home with a thuya ceiling, it is likely a reclaimed or renovated piece rather than a newly crafted one.

The Craftsmanship Behind Moroccan Woodworking

Moroccan woodworkers, particularly those from the Berber communities, have honed their skills over generations, transforming thuya wood into intricate works of art. Most artisans work within cooperatives, ensuring that profits directly benefit the craftsmen. These cooperatives also focus on sustainable practices, such as extracting pine-scented oil from thuya resin, which is valued in both aromatherapy and homoeopathy. The sap is also used to create lacquer and varnish, essential to the local craftsman’s toolkit.

Traditionally, men handle the artistic aspects of woodworking, including carving and decoration, while women and children polish and feed the intricate grain. The result is a stunning display of craftsmanship, with each piece radiating a unique aura, whether it be a majestic sideboard adorned with hand-carved motifs or a delicate table featuring geometric patterns.

Purchasing Thuya Wood Products

For those looking to purchase thuya wood products, Morocco’s Atlantic coast—especially in cities like Essaouira and Agadir—offers a wide selection at reasonable prices. To ensure authenticity and support local artisans, consider buying from cooperatives rather than wholesalers or middlemen. This not only guarantees the quality of the product but also ensures that your purchase directly benefits the craftsmen who created it.

The Techniques and Finishing of Moroccan Woodwork

Moroccan woodworking is renowned for its meticulous techniques and attention to detail. Craftsmen have mastered the art of working with both traditional hardwoods like cedar, oak, and pine, as well as exotic species such as thuya burl and tamarisk. Whether it’s carving intricate designs, turning thin spindles, or assembling complex marquetry panels, each piece reflects a high level of skill and creativity.

The finishing processes are equally important in enhancing and protecting the beauty of Moroccan woodwork. Techniques such as sealing with natural sealants like beeswax or linseed oil, varnish application, sanding, and wax buffing all contribute to the final product’s durability and luster. These processes ensure that each piece remains not only beautiful but also functional for years to come.

The Enduring Legacy of Moroccan Woodworking

Moroccan woodworking, particularly with thuya wood, is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and the extraordinary skill of its artisans. The exotic woods used in these crafts, each with its unique characteristics, contribute to the creation of truly exquisite pieces. The care and craftsmanship required to work with these materials make each item a work of art, reflecting the soul and spirit of Morocco.

Whether it’s a small, delicate carving or a grand piece of furniture, Moroccan woodworking is a celebration of tradition, creativity, and sustainable practices. By supporting this art form, we not only preserve a valuable cultural heritage but also honor the craftsmen who continue to keep this ancient tradition alive.