The Unborn II - T-Shirt

Wear a piece of Zen philosophy. This Japanese-inspired calligraphy tee features three flowing columns of cursive Chinese characters that faithfully reproduce the 17th-century Zen master Bankei Yōtaku’s meditation on the “Unborn” in a modern design interpretation.

The design

Three dynamic vertical columns of beautifully flowing, cursive characters present Bankei Yōtaku’s short poem about the "Unborn", which tells us of an eternal presence, "existing prior to heaven and earth", and sum up his philosophy which incorporated both Zen Buddhism and Chinese Daoism.

The centuries-old calligraphy contrasts with a modern t-shirt design featuring a grunge effect that gives the shirt a loved-&-worn look from day one.

The artist

Bankei Yōtaku (1622-1693) was a Japanese Rinzai Zen master known for teaching the concept of the “Unborn” (fushō), emphasizing natural, effortless awareness free from attachments or deliberate practice.

Why you'll love it

• Beautifully flowing calligraphy, faithfully reproduced with small ink splatters and "flying white" in a modern interpretation
• The grunge effect gives the shirt a worn-in look from day one and makes it age gracefully
• A unique teaching wrapped into a striking shirt design that wears well as a stand-alone-piece but also layered under an open shirt or jacket
• A perfect gift for all who are interested in meditation and mindfulness, or enjoy masterful calligraphy