Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a powerful, surrealist-influenced original etching titled 'Trilogy: The State of Man' by American artist Berk Chappell, numbered 7 of an edition of only 25. The triptych-style composition depicts three stages of human existence represented as stylized masks or lollipop-like figures: youth, middle-aged anxiety, and death.
Story
Created over a span of three years from 1971 to 1974, this print captures the existential anxieties of the Vietnam War era. By rendering the human lifecycle as fragile, theatrical masks on sticks, Chappell comments on the performative nature of survival. It is a hauntingly beautiful memento mori for the modern age.
Maker / Origin
Berkley 'Berk' Chappell (1938–2014) was a respected American artist and long-time art professor at Oregon State University, where he influenced generations of printmakers. Known for his highly detailed, surreal, and often socially conscious etchings and lithographs, his works are held in several academic and regional museum collections.
Condition & Value
The print appears to be in good condition with strong, crisp ink impressions and a clear plate mark. There is some minor waving to the paper edges and light handling smudges on the wide margins, which is typical for unframed prints of this age.
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.