Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Beneficence (First Edition)
Summary
Beneficence (First Edition, 2015) is a giclée with glaze published by Other Criteria in an edition of 50, measuring roughly 49 x 36 cm. Drawn from Hirst's Kaleidoscope body of work, it arranges butterfly wings into a symmetrical, stained-glass-like pattern under a glossy glaze. Each print is signed and numbered.
Why It Matters
Beneficence carries the Kaleidoscope idea forward from the first such painting, It's a Wonderful World (2001), which was inspired by a Victorian tea tray. The butterfly here invokes both the Greek Psyche, the soul, and the Christian symbol of resurrection, making beauty a vehicle for meaning and mortality.
Collector Perspective
As a giclée in an edition of 50, Beneficence is more attainable than the tighter Psalm runs while retaining the Kaleidoscope's decorative appeal. The 'First Edition' designation and glazed finish matter to collectors, as does the compact format that suits intimate hanging. Signature and numbering support provenance.
Historical Context
Hirst began working with butterflies in 1989, describing the insect as a 'universal trigger.' The Kaleidoscope paintings, initiated in 2001, reference stained-glass windows and Victorian decoration; Beneficence extends that lineage into an accessible glazed giclée edition.
FAQ
What technique is Beneficence?
A giclée print with glaze, published by Other Criteria.
What does the butterfly symbolize here?
The soul (Greek Psyche) and, in Christian imagery, resurrection, per Hirst's Kaleidoscope framework.
How large is the edition?
Fifty, each signed and numbered.
How does it relate to the Kaleidoscope paintings?
It draws on the series begun in 2001 with It's a Wonderful World, itself inspired by a Victorian tea tray.
About the Artist
Damien Hirst (born 1965, Bristol) is a British artist and the most prominent figure of the Young British Artists (YBAs). Rising to fame in the late 1980s and 1990s, he built a practice around mortality, science, religion, and beauty — from formaldehyde-preserved animals to his Spot, Spin, and Butterfly (Kaleidoscope) series. Hirst is also one of the most prolific printmakers in contemporary art, releasing extensive signed editions through his own science-led studio and, more recently, the HENI imprint. His work has commanded record prices and defined the market for blue-chip contemporary editions.
Collecting Damien Hirst at Gauntlet Gallery
Which Damien Hirst prints should I collect?
Signed, numbered editions from his signature series — Spots, Butterflies/Kaleidoscope, Spins, Cherry Blossoms, and skull works — are the collectible core. Look for strong condition and the artist's pencil signature. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes complete, well-documented impressions.
How is a Hirst print authenticated?
We sell Hirst works with documented provenance and the edition's signature and numbering; many carry HENI or studio documentation. Each piece is photographed exactly as it ships, including signature and edition details.
What drives value?
Series and image (iconic Spots and Butterflies lead), edition size, format and scale, condition, and provenance all drive value. Hand-signed, low-numbered, and diamond-dust or foilblock works command premiums.