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From 5. June 2025 at Bryggens Museum

Tales in Thread – Ragna Breivik’s Masterpieces

The tapestry series Åsmund Frægdegjeva by Ragna Breivik at the Bryggens Museum.

A unique textile exhibition at Bryggens Museum.

Experience ten magnificent tapestries that bring medieval legends to life. For the very first time, the complete Åsmund Frægdagjeva series by textile artist Ragna Breivik is on display at Bryggens Museum, offering a rare opportunity to experience these remarkable works in atmospheric medieval surroundings.

The tapestries were woven over a period of more than 25 years and are based on the medieval ballad of Åsmund Frægdagjeva, who rescues Princess Ermelin from the trolls of Trollebotn. The series has previously been exhibited, in whole or in part, at prestigious venues including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum and Oseana Art & Cultural Centre. Normally housed at Hordamuseet, the collection is now being shown at Bryggens Museum.

Photo of the exhibition Tales in Thread – Ragna Breivik's Masterpieces at Bryggens Museum

A Tribute to Ragna Breivik and the Art of Weaving

The exhibition celebrates both the Åsmund Frægdagjeva series, Ragna Breivik’s artistic legacy and the craft of tapestry weaving. Although Gerhard Munthe, who created the original designs for the tapestries, has received much recognition, it is Breivik’s artistic interpretation that makes these works truly unique. Drawing on traditional weaving techniques and inspired by Norwegian nature, folk art and folklore, she created a distinctive visual language that combines craftsmanship, storytelling and artistic innovation.

Stories Woven in Thread

These tapestries are far more than beautiful works of art—they tell a story. Through colour, form and intricate woven details, medieval ballads, sagas and storytelling traditions come vividly to life. Each tapestry represents a chapter in the story of Åsmund Frægdagjeva, together forming one of the most significant achievements in Norwegian textile art.

The exhibition also presents other works by Ragna Breivik, offering visitors a broader insight into her artistic career. Together, they reveal an artist who masterfully balanced tradition and innovation while developing a distinctive voice within Norwegian textile art.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the complete tapestry series and discover the story behind the works, the artist and the rich tradition of tapestry weaving.

The exhibition is on display until 30 December 2026.

Telefon
55 30 80 30
E-post
post@bymuseet.no
Adresse
Dreggsallmenningen 3

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