Morocco's Zellige Artistry: A Cultural Gem Under Threat of Appropriation

Thursday 02 May 2024 - 16:00

Morocco's zellige art is a resplendent gem in the world of cultural heritage, captivating admirers worldwide, including Simona Mirela Miculescu, President of UNESCO's General Conference. During her visit to Tetouan, a city in northern Morocco, Miculescu was profoundly moved by the intricate beauty of this traditional mosaic tilework. She emphasized UNESCO's unwavering commitment to safeguarding cultural treasures globally.

Zellige, a quintessential Moroccan handicraft, is an art form deeply rooted in the nation's rich cultural history. It involves transforming clay into intricate mosaic pieces of varying shapes, sizes, and hues. This ancient tradition has fascinated artisans and connoisseurs for centuries. During her visit to a zellige workshop in Tetouan, Miculescu experienced the intricate methods and techniques that bring these exquisite creations to life.

"I am impressed by the beauty of the city of Tetouan, its rich history, and its traditions," Miculescu remarked, expressing gratitude to UNESCO's office for facilitating her encounter with one of "the most beautiful places in Morocco." Her reverence for the zellige workshop extended beyond mere appreciation. She acknowledged being "greatly influenced" by the experience, highlighting the value UNESCO places on exceptional art forms.

Amidst the acclaim, however, there is a looming threat of cultural appropriation that casts a shadow over Morocco's cherished zellige heritage. In 2016, Morocco registered zellige with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), taking proactive measures to protect this cultural gem from misappropriation. Alarmingly, neighboring Algeria sparked controversy by claiming zellige as part of its own cultural heritage, even announcing plans to submit a file to UNESCO seeking recognition for "Algerian zellige" on the "Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity."

This dispute extends beyond zellige, as Algeria has also attempted to claim ownership of other iconic Moroccan cultural elements, such as the traditional caftan. In a recent incident, Algeria's Ministry of Culture included photographs of the distinctly Moroccan "ntaa caftan" in a dossier submitted to UNESCO, an act that has drawn criticism and concern.

Given the urgency of this situation, Morocco's Minister of Culture, Mehdi Bensaid, has actively explored avenues to protect the nation's cultural heritage during discussions with high-level officials from WIPO. Daren Tang Heng Shim, the Director General of WIPO, reiterated Morocco's legitimate right to safeguard its historical legacy, emphasizing the vital role of intellectual property in preserving the cultural fabric of both urban and rural areas.

As the world watches with bated breath, Morocco's battle to preserve the authenticity of its zellige art and broader cultural heritage takes on paramount significance. The preservation of these treasures is not merely a matter of national pride but a testament to the rich tapestry of human creativity and expression that transcends borders and unites us all.