Kotobuki - T-Shirt

Wear a piece of Zen history with this T-shirt featuring the "Kotobuki" calligraphy by the renowned Master Hakuin Ekaku. Blending spiritual significance with minimalist Japanese aesthetics, this garment serves as more than just clothing – it is a wearable talisman representing a wish for longevity and prosperity. Perfect for those who appreciate art history, mindfulness, or the timeless beauty of traditional shodo (calligraphy).

The design

At the center of this design lies the powerful Kanji character 寿 (kotobuki), captured in the distinctive, bold brushstrokes of Hakuin Ekaku. In Japanese culture, kotobuki is a celebratory word meaning "long life," "congratulations," or "longevity."

Unlike the rigid, perfected characters found in standard printing, Hakuin’s calligraphy is celebrated for its unpretentious, rough-hewn quality. In this stunning design, he has rendered kotobuki as a massive shape, rendered with the confidence and artistic freedom of a true master calligrapher.

The design is a faithful reproduction of his famous artwork, edited only as needed for a clean reproduction on a shirt. It still shows some of the original texture of the ink and the dynamic movement of the brush – a true zenga (Zen painting).

The artist

Hakuin Ekaku (1685-1768) is one of the most influential figures in Japanese history, widely credited with reviving the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism. Famous for creating the koan "What is the sound of one hand clapping?". His works are held in museums worldwide and are revered for their humor, humanity, and profound simplicity.

Why you'll love it

• You are wearing a faithful reproduction of a work by one of Japan’s greatest Zen masters.
• The "Kotobuki" symbol acts as an affirmation of health and longevity for the wearer. While the design is anything but subtle, its meaning will be understood by only a few – a talisman hidden in plain sight.
• The monochrome brushwork pairs effortlessly with denim for a casual look or comfortable bottoms for yoga and meditation sessions. We have added a more eye-catching color option as well.
• This shirt makes a thoughtful, auspicious present for birthdays, milestones, or for anyone wishing to celebrate a long, healthy life.
• The unique, bold strokes of the Kanji naturally invite curiosity and conversation about art and Japanese culture. Why not share the secret of its hidden meaning with a friend or the likeminded souls you meet?