Sigmund Freud was perhaps the most famous collector of carpets: draped over his infamous psychoanalytic couch was a Persian carpet woven by the Qashqa’i Shekarlu, a nomadic tribal community living in Fars Province in SW Iran. Qashqa’i carpets are highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their vivid colours, intricate patterns and fine weaving. Nickle Galleries’ Carpet and Textile collection features a number of these carpets—many embellished with birds, beasts, flowers and trees.

Join Michele Hardy for a unique opportunity to visit the vault and learn from some remarkable textile artifacts.

Qashaq’i Carpet, circa 1880, The Jean and Marie Erikson Collection, Nickle Galleries, University of Calgary (2014.242.000).

Please note food and drink are not allowed on the tour and you will be asked to check bags and wash hands before entering the vault. As there is limited seating in the vault area, participants should expect to stand for about an hour. If you have mobility concerns, or questions, please contact mhardy@ucalgary.ca

Space is limited, please pre-register

Meet at the entrance to Nickle Galleries, ground floor, Taylor Family Digital Library, University of Calgary.

Always free. Everyone welcome.