This pair of socks probably belonged to a Sufi, also known as darwish in Persian (from which we get the English term ‘dervish’). The root words of Sufi are believed to be ‘suf’ meaning wool or ‘safa’ meaning purity. These words refer to both the simple woollen cloaks worn by these Muslim ascetics, and the purity of the heart that Sufi followers strive to achieve. These socks were, and still are worn in the northern colder climates of Iran. They are traditionally worn indoors as house socks. The upper band is woven with the words ‘Mubarak bad’ (meaning congratulations, or good wishes). This benediction would suggest that these socks were probably a gift to commemorate a special occasion.
