Takanuva (Nuva Cube - printed wall element)
Part 44740pb01 · Bionicle
Titans / Mask of Light · 2003 - Debuted in the set 8596 Takanuva during the high point of the Bionicle First Generation era.
Figure ID
Part 44740pb01
Theme
Bionicle
Year Released
2003 - Debuted in the set 8596 Takanuva during the high point of the Bionicle First Generation era.
Rarity
Uncommon to Rare - This is not a standard minifigure but a specialized printed brick/wall element exclusive to a single Bionicle titan set. Finding it in good condition without scratches on the printing is difficult.
Head
Not applicable - This is a large-scale brick element. However, the set it belongs to features the Mask of Light (Avohkii) in flat silver/pearl gold.
Torso
Not applicable - The element is a 1x4x5 wall part with a printed Nuva Cube motif.
Legs
Not applicable - This element serves as part of the Ussanui vehicle or the stand for the character in the Bionicle lore.
Accessories
The set 8596 includes the Kolhii Staff and the Ussanui vehicle. This specific printed brick acts as a ceremonial altar or control panel representing the 6 Toa Nuva symbols.
Color Scheme
Bright Yellow background with Thick Black printed geometric line work. The yellow is vibrant and prone to fading if exposed to UV.
Printing Details
Pad-printed on a 1x4x5 block. Features six distinct patterns merged into a grid, representing the elemental symbols of the Toa Nuva. Printing is single-sided.
Variants
None known for this specific element, though the Nuva Cube symbol appears on smaller stickers and in media; this is the only large scale printed version.
Condition Notes
The large flat surface is extremely prone to 'play wear' scratches and scuffs which ruin the black printing. Yellowing of the plastic is a major concern for parts stored in sunlight.
Estimated Value
The individual part 44740pb01 averages $8.00 - $15.00 USD depending on print quality. The full 8596 set ranges from $80.00 to $150.00 USD.
Price (New)
The set 8596 Takanuva originally retailed for approximately $30.00 USD in 2003.
Compatible Sets
8596 Takanuva (2003) is the only official set containing this specific printed part.
Character Background
Takanuva is the Toa of Light. The Nuva Cube shown on the print was a central plot device in the Bionicle storyline used to unlock the power of the Toa Nuva or serve as a target for the Bohrok-Kal.
Design Notes
This part utilizes a 'Wall 1 x 4 x 5' mold. The design is a masterpiece of Bionicle iconography, capturing the tribal-industrial aesthetic of the early 2000s.
Similar Minifigures
While not a minifigure, it is sought after by the same collectors who hunt for the 'Movie Edition' gold Avohkii or the 2008 Takanuva Titan.
Collectibility
High for Bionicle completionists. As Bionicle pieces transition into 'vintage' territory, printed lore-heavy pieces like the Nuva Cube increase in value.
History
Released during the 'Mask of Light' movie tie-in wave, marking the end of the first major story arc of Bionicle.
Interesting Facts
The symbols on the brick actually correspond to the Mata/Nuva elements: Fire, Water, Air, Earth, Stone, and Ice. In the movie, this cube is depicted as a physical object much smaller than this brick scale.
Display Suggestions
Best displayed as a backdrop for the Takanuva figure or integrated into a 'shrine' MOC to the Toa Nuva. Keep in a UV-protected case to prevent the yellow from dulling.
Modification Potential
Highly used in MOCs (My Own Creations) for architectural detailing in 'Neo-Classic Space' or 'Cyberpunk' builds due to its high-contrast geometric look.
Overall Assessment
A niche but iconic piece of LEGO history. For a Bionicle fan, it is a 10/10 display piece. For a general collector, it is a fascinating example of early 2000s graphic design.