1/4

GASHIN SHŌTAN — “Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting Gall”EAST INTERSECTS WEST 613

¥2,676

International shipping available

This design is based on a reinterpretation of a historical Coptic limestone cross dating from approximately the 4th to 8th century CE.
Rather than reproducing the original artifact directly, the form of the cross has been reconstructed into a balanced equal-armed geometry, emphasizing symmetry, sacred proportion, and spiritual equilibrium. Through this transformation, the symbolic essence of the original Coptic object is preserved while translated into a contemporary minimalist visual language.
The historical origins of the cross lie within the highly syncretic culture of Late Antique Egypt, where Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and early Christian traditions intersected. During this period, Alexandria served as one of the intellectual and spiritual centers of the Mediterranean world, where philosophy, mysticism, theology, and science coexisted and influenced one another.
The spiral motifs carved into the cross are believed to represent stylized grapevines — symbols associated in early Christianity with mystical union, spiritual abundance, and the Eucharist. The radiating forms extending outward from the central floral or solar motif suggest divine illumination and the expansion of sacred order into the cosmos.
The equal-armed structure also evokes ancient cosmological symbolism related to the four cardinal directions and intermediary points, concepts shared across Hermetic, Greco-Roman, and numerous mystical traditions.

GASHIN SHŌTAN — “Sleeping on Brushwood and Tasting Gall”
In this work, the ancient Coptic cross is paired with the Japanese philosophical expression “Gashin Shōtan” (臥薪嘗胆), commonly translated as:
“To endure hardship and never forget one’s purpose.”
The phrase originates from ancient Chinese historical tradition and refers to a ruler who subjected himself to years of physical discomfort and discipline in order to preserve resolve, memory, and determination.
Within East Asian philosophy, Gashin Shōtan symbolizes perseverance through suffering, self-discipline, and the transformation of pain into spiritual strength.
Although separated geographically and theologically, both Coptic spirituality and Eastern philosophy contemplate:
• endurance through adversity
• spiritual refinement through suffering
• discipline of the inner self
• the pursuit of transcendence beyond material hardship
The historical experience of Coptic Christianity deepens this symbolism.
Across centuries of political upheaval, religious transition, and cultural transformation, Coptic communities preserved their spiritual identity through sacred art, ritual, and contemplation.
The reconstructed equal-armed geometry of the cross reflects a stable spiritual center maintained despite external instability.
Radiating outward from a balanced axis, the form evokes resilience sustained through inner order rather than outward force.
The vine motifs embedded within the original Coptic design further reinforce themes of continuity, sacrifice, spiritual nourishment, and rebirth.
In early Christian symbolism, suffering was often understood not merely as pain, but as a pathway toward transcendence and spiritual union.
Similarly, Eastern philosophy frequently interprets hardship as a means of inner cultivation and awakening.
By combining these symbolic traditions, the design becomes a meditation on perseverance — a visual expression of the human capacity to endure suffering while preserving spiritual clarity and purpose.
A convergence of archaeology, sacred geometry, contemplative philosophy, and minimalist form.

You've now found the staple t-shirt of your wardrobe. It's made of 100% ring-spun cotton and is soft and comfy. The double stitching on the neckline and sleeves add more durability to what is sure to be a favorite!

• 100% ring-spun cotton
• Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester
• All Heather colors are 65% polyester, 35% cotton
• 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²)
• Shoulder-to-shoulder taping
• Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center
• Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala

Disclaimer: Due to the fabric properties, the White color variant may appear off-white rather than bright white.

Age restrictions: For adults
EU Warranty: 2 years
Other compliance information: Meets the flammability, lead, cadmium, phthalates and formaldehyde level requirements.

In compliance with the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), Oak inc. and SINDEN VENTURES LIMITED ensure that all consumer products offered are safe and meet EU standards. For any product safety related inquiries or concerns, please contact our EU representative at [email protected]. You can also write to us at 123 Main Street, Anytown, Country or Markou Evgenikou 11, Mesa Geitonia, 4002, Limassol, Cyprus.