The Women Upholding the Persian New Year Haft-Sin Table Tradition—And Their Stories
Every year on the eve of the Spring Equinox, the 13-day-long Persian New Year festival of Nowruz begins. It’s a moment of celebration marked by traditional rituals, like the Chaharshanbe Suri, which calls for revelers to jump over a flame for good fortune. Then, there are also dances, visits with loved ones, and throughout it all, a sofreh haft-sin proudly displayed in the homes of those who celebrate.
The Haft-Sin Tradition
The haft-sin consists of a table thoughtfully and artistically arranged with symbolic elements to fete the New Year and the birth of spring. Traditionally, tables are set by women with seven (haft) things beginning with the Persian letter “sin,” including sprouts, vinegar, apples, garlic, sumac, and hyacinths—tables also can include mirrors, candles, painted eggs, goldfish, and a “book of wisdom.”
Personal Stories
Each haft-sin is deeply personal and individual to the families who arrange them, holding objects that might represent their hopes and desires for the year ahead. Persian photographer Clémence Polès captured the essence of this tradition by documenting the haft-sins of 36 Iranian women in the United States.
Alexis Badiyi
- Highlight: Her father’s mirror from Iran
- Presentation Style: Decorates a large shelf with wood, ceramic, and silver vessels
- Celebration: Growing up in Los Angeles with family traditions
Gisue Hariri
- Highlight: Her sofreh from Isfahan Bazaar
- Presentation Style: Designs like a Persian garden with flowers and birds
- Celebration: Important family celebrations in Iran and New York
Nasim Alikhani
- Highlight: Spring flowers and family tapestry
- Presentation Style: Uses family fabrics and glassware from Iran
- Celebration: Memories of creating haft-sin with her mother
Nilou Motamed
- Highlight: Including pastries from Iranian-American chef Roshanak Yousefian
- Presentation Style: Maximalist with heirlooms from mother and grandmother
- Celebration: Connection to Iranian culture and heritage
Sepideh Moafi
- Highlight: Abundance of flowers and powerful stones
- Presentation Style: Mash-up of old and new with traditional ingredients
- Celebration: Anticipation and excitement around Nowruz
Sunny Shokrae
- Highlight: Growing a successful sabze
- Presentation Style: Glutton for spring flowers and mix of vessels
- Celebration: Celebrating Nowruz in different chapters of life
Mina Alyeshmerni
- Highlight: Personalizing the haft-sin table with business elements
- Presentation Style: Including favorite Persian dishes and personal pieces
- Celebration: Growing appreciation for Persian culture and traditions
Pari Ehsan
- Highlight: Ancestral objects and silver bowls
- Presentation Style: Lyrical assemblage of elements with nature motifs
- Celebration: Yearly culmination of Persian culture and traditions
Each woman’s haft-sin table reflects not only the traditional elements but also their personal history, creativity, and connection to their Iranian roots. The tradition of setting up the haft-sin is a beautiful way to celebrate the New Year and honor cultural heritage.
Suggestion:
Be bewitched by Chanel: Collections and Creations Hardcover – click to be bewitched!