Artisan Gift Guide: Morocco & Jordan
Morocco and Jordan sit at the heart of Casa Duniya's collection — two countries with distinct craft traditions, but a shared commitment to work made by hand. This is a gift guide to the pieces that come from these two artisan communities, organized by who you're shopping for.
Morocco: 6,000 Years of Ceramic Tradition
Moroccan pottery dates back more than 6,000 years, blending indigenous Berber geometric patterns with the arabesque detail introduced by Arab-Andalusian craftspeople centuries ago. Our Akleja and Tiri lines sit within the classic blue-and-white tradition associated with the city of Fez; our Azala line uses the same technique in a striking black and white. Every piece is painted freehand, so no two are ever quite identical.
Jordan: Protective Symbols & Community Craft
In Jordan, artisans hand-paint the evil eye (nazar) and Hamsa motifs onto glass and ceramic — two of the most enduring protective symbols in Middle Eastern tradition. Some of our Jordanian pieces, like the Chameli line, are made through a Community Empowerment initiative that provides economic opportunities for local communities and refugees. Our Jarra Water Jug uses an even older tradition — hand-shaped clay that keeps water naturally cool without electricity.
Gift Ideas by Occasion
Housewarming Gifts
- Tiri Water Jug — a real centerpiece, hand-painted blue-and-white Moroccan design
- Jarra Water Jug — a genuinely useful, conversation-starting piece from Jordan
- Quba Candle Holder — substantial 25cm height, makes a real presence on a mantel
Hostess Gifts
- Nazar Canape Plate — doubles as a trinket tray after the party's over
- Metallic Flower Teaspoons (set of 6) — hand-painted, ready to gift as-is
- Margarita Serving Plate — a warmer, golden-yellow take on the classic Moroccan pattern
For the Host Who Entertains Often
- Akleja Dinner Plate, Akleja Bowl, and Akleja Appetizer Plate — a complete, coordinated Moroccan set
- Lina Teapot, Lina Tray, and Lina Teacups — a full tea service, hand-painted with a red-and-gold dragon design
- Fatima Salt and Pepper Shakers — the Hamsa hand motif, genuinely useful at the table
Protective & Meaningful Gifts
- Sadia Water Bottle — evil eye and Hamsa motifs hand-painted onto glass
- Amara Evil Eye Ceramic Jar — a serving jar with real symbolic meaning
- Nazar Trays — substantial enough to double as wall art
Learn More
For the full story behind these traditions, see our Artisan Craft Techniques Guide and Evil Eye Guide, or browse our full Home Decor collection for the complete range.