Primitive man carved and dyed graphic images of overwhelming beauty in the rocky walls of the caves at Dordogne. Exploring these priceless treasures triggered Lahner's fascination with mankind's origin and evolution. In the 1950's he expressed his impressions in a number of paintings and works on paper. His intent was not to copy what he saw in the caves, but to use this early art as inspiration for the development of his own vision.

Tauromachie
1950s
Among Lahner's cave works is this print, Tauromachie, or "Bullfighting." Four human figures battle a bull against a black background. The puzzle-like components make a compelling design, and this piece gives an indication of the variety of forms Lahner was experimenting with at mid-point in his career.