Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Black Heaven (Nite Time)
Summary
Black Heaven (Nite Time) is a 2012 giclee by Damien Hirst using inkjet, glaze and foilblock on Hahnemühle photo rag ultra smooth 305gsm. Published in an edition of 55 by Paul Stolper and Other Criteria, it carries a 55.5 x 55.5 cm image on a 72.5 x 71 cm sheet, signed and numbered.
Why It Matters
As a companion to the Dark Black Heaven variant, this print showcases how Hirst systematises his kaleidoscope butterfly compositions through titled colour states. The glaze-and-foilblock construction over archival inkjet gives the black-keyed palette a deep, reflective luminosity, turning symmetry drawn from insect wings into a shimmering, stained-glass-like field.
Collector Perspective
The edition of 55 and Paul Stolper / Other Criteria provenance place Black Heaven in a well-documented, desirable tier. Its dark palette and metallic finish reward in-person viewing. Condition of the foilblock and glaze surface is paramount, verify the signature and numbering and inspect for any abrasion, creasing or foil loss before acquiring.
Historical Context
The Heaven and Nite Time series build on Hirst's butterfly kaleidoscope works, which reference rose windows and religious ornament while invoking mortality. Rooted in his 1991 In and Out of Love, these 2012 prints darken the palette toward a nocturnal, sublime register within his long-running memento-mori concerns.
FAQ
How does this differ from Dark Black Heaven?
They are companion colour states in the same series; both share medium, format and edition size but present distinct palettes.
What is the medium?
Inkjet giclee with glaze and foilblock on Hahnemühle photo rag ultra smooth 305gsm.
What is the edition size?
55, published by Paul Stolper and Other Criteria, signed and numbered.
What are the dimensions?
Image 55.5 x 55.5 cm; sheet 72.5 x 71 cm.
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.