The Isle of Tigers Tee is part of our modern interpretation of the heritage and histories of the Straits-born Chinese of Singapore. Emerging from the crossroads of the Straits of Malacca, this culture, now known as Peranakan, traces its lineage to 15th-century Chinese traders who settled in Malacca and married local Malay women, creating a unique identity woven from two traditions. Then many more. Chinese, Malay, Indian, British. Each leaving something behind. None of it staying separate for long.

The design also recalls the legend of Sang Nila Utama, the Palembang prince who landed on the island of Temasek in 1299. While hunting, he encountered a wild beast he believed to be a lion, giving rise to the name Singapura, the Lion City. History suggests otherwise. No lions roamed these lands. What he most likely saw was a tiger, the true native of the island, watchful rather than loud, ferocious without excess.

Two tigers on a small island. Intertwined, inseparable. An ode to a place that was never small in the ways that matter. Built from convergence, carrying the titanic weight of every culture that passed through it and left something behind.

Chronicles of the Straits Born.

Details

• Digitally printed in Australia on a 190gsm combed cotton tee
• White base with green print
• Fits true to size — see size guide for details
• Cold wash, inside out
• Original Eastern Hill General Supplies concept and design