A tremendous three colour lino-cut by one of Wellington's leading mid-century modernists, "New
Zealand's supreme wood engraver, [and our] finest 20th century natural history artist".

The work depicts Maui, fleeing from Mahuika as a hawk, and his narrow escape amongst leaping flames.
It is a clear demonstration of Taylor's strong design background, and his technical prowess for printmaking.

From an edition of only 24.

This has been entirely restored for sale, and is excellent condition. It's original period frame has been retro-fitted with a conservation mat/backing - the work is also under top quality non-reflective museum glass.

His significance as an artist is represented not only by his talent, but because his work emphasises "Maori as an essential part of the natural order of life in New Zealand".

Amongst his oeuvre, I believe this work should be considered one of Taylor's most imortant. It seems of all the legends he depicted, this was a favourite. Although in a separate engraving this was the first Maori Legend Ernest Mervyn Taylor set out to depict. This was followed by this linocut, and a second engraving, each separate portrayals of the same subject. It even appears to have held strong personal value to Taylor, as it is proudly displayed in a 1964 portrait of the artist in his home-studio, twelve years
after it's production!

"The Maori legend illustrations represent a field in which this artist is the acknowledged master".

Included within Taylor's friends, contemporaries, and teachers, were Fred Ellis, George Woods, Russell Clark, Ernst Plischke, and Gordon Wilson. Alongside them, Ernest Mervyn Taylor became part of a "significant renaissance" in New Zealand art.

Frame Measures: 420w x 550h
Art Measures: 265w x 340h

This item is on display in our Gallery space.