Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a powerful, surrealist original etching titled 'Trilogy: The State of Man' by American artist Berk Chappell, hand-signed and dated 1971-1974. The triptych-style composition depicts three distinct faces on stakes—a doll-like child, a screaming mask, and a skeletal skull—representing the progression of human mortality and psychological states. It is numbered 7/25, indicating a very small, exclusive print run.
Story
Created over a span of three years starting in 1971, this haunting triptych captures the existential anxiety of the Vietnam War era. By placing the stages of life on stakes, Chappell created a modern memento mori that challenges the viewer to confront the fragility of human existence.
Maker / Origin
Berkley 'Berk' Chappell (1938-2014) was a highly respected American artist and art professor who taught for decades at Oregon State University. Known for his technical mastery of printmaking and drawing, his work often blended surrealism, social commentary, and intricate, organic line work. His pieces are held in several academic and regional museum collections.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in good condition with strong ink retention and clear margins. There is some minor waving to the paper and slight corner wear on the outer margins, which is typical for unframed prints of this age and will be easily covered by professional matting and framing.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.