Morocco · Mineral / Cosmetic Clay Preparation
الغاسول (ghassoul, rhassoul)
Quarrying and preparation of ghassoul, a saponaceous clay from the Tamdalet deposits near Ksabi in the Moulouya valley. After hand sorting at the quarry, women traditionally soaked the raw clay overnight in water scented with orange blossom and myrtle, sieved and settled it, kneaded it by hand and sun-dried it in thin flakes on metal sheets. It is a staple of the hammam alongside black soap and the kessa glove, and part of bridal offerings.
Risk level: Vulnerable · Not inscribed
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