Join Hannah Lund, Curator of Exhibitions and Displays, and Shabnam Balouch, Preventative Conservator, for an exclusive tour exploring the traditions of Nowruz, the Haft-Sin setting, and the Persian art treasures within Leighton House. Discover culture, history, and beauty.

What is Nowruz?Nowruz, translating to "New Day", marks the Persian New Year and coincides with the spring equinox, symbolizing renewal, rebirth, and the awakening of nature. This ancient celebration, rooted in Zoroastrian traditions, is observed by millions across Iran, Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

The Haft Sin Table: A Symbol of NowruzThe Haft Sin table is the heart of Nowruz celebrations, representing the themes of rebirth, renewal, prosperity, and harmony with nature. The name "Haft Sin" translates to "Seven S's," as it features seven symbolic items that begin with the Persian letter "س" (Sin): Sabzeh (sprouted wheat), Seeb (apples), Senjed (dried oleaster fruit), Samanu (sweet pudding), Somaq (sumac), Seer (garlic cloves) and Serkeh (vinegar). These seven items, along with supplementary objects, create a display that reflects the hopes and blessings for the year ahead.

Interested in more Nowruz celebrations at Leighton House? Join us on Saturday 22 March:

• Family Fun drop-in sessions, decorating eggs for the Haft-Sin and tying wish ribbons on trees in the garden.

• Live music from the Arab Hall with Rambod Latifi, adding an atmospheric magic to Nowruz celebrations of the Persian New Year. Please note, not seated performances.

Meet the speakers

Hannah Lund, Curator of Exhibitions and Displays at Leighton House and Sambourne House, is currently focused on the future exhibition programme and the interpretation of both historic houses. She joined the museums full-time in 2018 to work on a project to rationalise the reserve collection. Between 2019 and 2022 she was responsible for developing displays and interpretation as part of the museum’s capital project Hidden Gem to National Treasure. Hannah studied History of Art at Edinburgh University, completing a Research Masters in British material culture in 2017.

Shabnam Balouch is a Persian conservation professional with over a decade of experience in preserving historic buildings, managing collections, and caring for archives. She has a strong background in Islamic art and architecture and currently serves as a Preventative Conservation Officer at Leighton House and Sambourne House, focusing on environmental monitoring and conservation cleaning. With advanced degrees in Cultural Heritage and Historic Building Revitalization, Shabnam is passionate about safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.