Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Controlled Substances Key Spot Print
Summary
The Controlled Substances Key Spot Print is a 2012 silkscreen by Damien Hirst, published by Other Criteria in an edition of 150. Distinguished by a glaze and a debossed edge, it measures 50.6 x 49 cm. Conceived as the anchor of the Controlled Substances group, it is designed to pair with the Meprobamate and Phendimetrazine spot prints, and is signed and numbered.
Why It Matters
As the "key" print, this work is the organizing centre of the Controlled Substances set, meant to be shown alongside its named companion prints. Its debossed edge is a distinctive physical feature not found on every spot print. It offers collectors a defined, curated grouping rather than a single isolated image, deepening the pharmaceutical concept.
Collector Perspective
The compact, near-square format and edition of 150 make this an accessible spot print, and its role as the set's anchor gives it collecting logic beyond the standalone image. The debossed edge and glaze reward close, in-hand inspection and careful framing. Collectors building the full set should confirm which companion prints they intend to pair, and verify signature and numbering.
Historical Context
Hirst's spot works, begun in 1988, follow the no-repeated-colour rule and were extended into editioned prints through Other Criteria. The Controlled Substances group, released around 2012, ties its prints to named pharmaceuticals and is built around this key print. The debossed edge reflects Other Criteria's attention to finish and physical detail across the series.
FAQ
What is a 'key' spot print?
It is the anchor image of the Controlled Substances group, designed to be shown with the companion Meprobamate and Phendimetrazine spot prints.
What is the debossed edge?
A recessed border pressed into the paper, a distinctive finishing feature of this print.
How large is the edition?
It was issued in an edition of 150, each signed and numbered.
Can it be bought alone?
Yes, it can be acquired on its own or paired with the other Controlled Substances spot prints.
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.