The Universe - T-Shirt

Bring the depth of Zen philosophy into your every day with this Japanese Zen art T-shirt. Featuring Sengai Gibon's iconic “Circle, Triangle, Square” (a.k.a. The Universe), this shirt captures the simplicity and depth of Zen teachings in a minimalist, abstract artwork from the 1800s.

The design

It is safe to say that this painting is an outlier in the artistic oeuvre of Sengai Gibon. His typical paintins – of which he is said to have created over a thousand – recounted Buddhist concepts or teachings in a funny, easy to understand way. They had an almost childlike quality.

Except for this one: Highly abstract, never explained or even entitled by the artist, it is believed to express nothing less than the totality of the universe. An exceptional piece of art that many Japanese refer to simply as the "circle, triangle, square" (reading from right to left).

The artist

Sengai Gibon (1750-1837) was a Japanese Zen monk, artist, and abbot of Shōfuku-ji temple. Sent to a temple to become a monk while still a child, he is said to have started painting only in this 40's, using his works make Zen teachings accessible to a wider audience. 

Why you'll love it

• A faithful reproduction of Sengai’s unique Zen artwork “The Universe”
  
• Minimalist design with clean, bold shapes that pair well with any outfit and creates an instant connection with the like-minded
  
• Comfortable unisex fit for daily wear, soft cotton