What is the estimated value of this Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' screenprint?

The estimated market value for this Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' color screenprint is between $2,500 and $4,000. This valuation is supported by recent auction results for comparable works, including an Artist's Proof of the same print that sold for approximately $2,642 in 2022. The print's excellent condition and its status as a limited edition (33/45) by a significant South African modernist contribute to this value.

What era is this Walter Whall Battiss screenprint from?

This Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' color screenprint is from the c. 1970s, specifically dated around 1973. This period is significant as it represents Battiss's exploration of his 'Fook Island' concept, a utopian world he created. The 'Orgy' series, with its vibrant colors and stylized figures, is a prime example of his innovative response to the political climate of apartheid-era South Africa, making it a culturally important work.

What condition is this Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' print in?

The print itself is in excellent condition, with vibrant, unfaded inks and clean paper. However, the overall condition is graded "Good" due to issues with its presentation. The matting shows noticeable discoloration and acid burn, and the gilt wood frame has minor scuffs and scratches. Professional re-framing with archival, acid-free materials is strongly recommended to preserve the artwork and maximize its market value.

Where should I sell this Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' screenprint?

To maximize its value, it is recommended to sell this Walter Whall Battiss screenprint through a specialist Modern & Contemporary African Art auction house like Bonhams (via their New York office) or Strauss & Co. (South Africa). These venues attract dedicated collectors and achieve the highest prices. Alternatively, a specialist private gallery like Skoto Gallery in New York could offer a faster transaction, though potentially at a lower net return.

Is this Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' print authentic?

This Walter Whall Battiss 'Orgy 3' print is considered "Likely Authentic." The identification is based on direct comparison with documented examples, the artist's distinctive style, and the physical characteristics of the work. It is hand-signed 'Battiss' and numbered '33/45', consistent with his limited editions. While the cursive signature is stylistically consistent, a definitive match against a benchmark signature would provide absolute certainty for high-value transactions.

Walter Whall Battiss, 'Orgy 3', Color Screenprint

Estimated value: $2,500 - $4,000. Walter Whall Battiss, 'Orgy 3', Color Screenprint (c. 1970s) — a researched valuation with cited comparable sales in Fine Art, from findthevalueof.com.

About this item

This vibrant screenprint is a prime example of the work of Walter Whall Battiss, one of South Africa's most important and innovative modern artists. Created circa 1973, 'Orgy 3' belongs to his most famous series, which explores themes of liberation, joy, and uninhibited human connection. The playful, interlocking figures are characteristic of Battiss's 'Fook Island' concept—a utopian 'island of the imagination' he created with its own maps, plants, animals, and people, as a creative and philosophical response to the oppressive political climate of apartheid-era South Africa. The 'Orgy' prints, with their bold colors and celebratory energy, represent the pinnacle of this inventive world. Owning this work is to own a piece of South African art history, representing an artist who championed imagination and freedom in the face of conformity.

How the value was reached

The valuation is based on an analysis of recent auction results for comparable works by Walter Battiss. A key comparable is an Artist's Proof of this same print, 'Orgy 3', which sold for approximately $2,642 in 2022. Another is a unique pen and ink drawing of a similar 'Orgy' subject that sold for $3,561 in 2018. The subject print, being from the main numbered edition, is valued slightly below a unique drawing but in a similar range to the rarer Artist's Proof, with an upward adjustment for market appreciation since 2018. The range also accounts for the excellent condition of the print itself, while factoring in the necessary cost of archival re-framing. At auction, we would recommend a reserve of $2,000. The net proceeds to the seller, after a typical auction house commission of 10-15%, would be approximately $2,125 - $3,600.

Comparable sales

Walter Whall Battiss (South Africa 1906-1982), ORGY 3, 1973. Colour screenprint, signed and numbered Artist's Proof 1/5 in pencil in the margin. — sold for $2,642 (Aspire Art), 2022-03-16
Walter Whall Battiss, ORGY, 1973. Pen and ink on paper, signed and dated '73. — sold for $3,561 (Aspire Art), 2018-06-17

Expert notes

This is a desirable and authentic work by Walter Battiss, with the print itself in excellent condition. To best preserve the artwork and maximize its value, we strongly recommend having it professionally re-framed using archival, acid-free materials. While the signature is consistent with the artist's hand, obtaining a high-resolution photograph for comparison against a verified auction record would provide absolute confirmation for any potential buyer before sale.

This report is one of the worked examples in our guide What is your print, lithograph or engraving worth?.