Colin McCahon

How is the hammer broken

How is the hammer broken by Colin McCahon

Artwork Detail

The fragile future of humanity vexed McCahon. This painting asks questions about ecological issues and expresses the fear of nuclear war that was prevalent during the 1960s. How is the Hammer Broken prompts you to consider moral and social uncertainties. Will the human race destroy itself? What future does the world have? Is it our destiny to destroy Earth?

Title
How is the hammer broken
Artist/creator
Colin McCahon
Production date
1961
Medium
oil (alkyd) on hardboard
Dimensions
1218 x 905 mm
Credit line
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of the artist, 1981
Accession no
1981/11
Other ID
cm000677 Catalogue Number
Copyright
Copying restrictions apply
Department
New Zealand Art
Display status
Not on display

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