Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Cupric Bromide (First Edition)
Summary
Cupric Bromide (First Edition) is a 2012 Manifold Editions woodcut with two-inch spots on a 6 x 6 inch sheet. Its square composition presents a balanced grid of medium colour dots, each carrying the grain and ink relief characteristic of the woodcut process rather than the flat surface of screenprint.
Why It Matters
Sharing format and spot size with its Manifold companions, Cupric Bromide demonstrates the series logic of Hirst's spots: a repeatable system distinguished by title and palette. The woodcut medium reintroduces material texture into a motif conceived as impersonal, making each First Edition sheet both systematic and tactile.
Collector Perspective
The 6 x 6 inch scale and edition of 55 make Cupric Bromide an accessible, wall-ready spot with the collectible distinction of woodcut. Its two-inch dots read cleanly at close range. Confirm the signature, numbering and even ink coverage, and keep the Manifold Editions documentation to support provenance and future resale.
Historical Context
Cupric Bromide is named for a copper compound, continuing Hirst's practice of drawing spot titles from chemical and pharmaceutical catalogues. The 2012 Manifold woodcut series recast the long-running spot motif in relief print, produced during a period when Hirst was actively restating the works across formats and media.
FAQ
What is the spot size?
Two inches, arranged in a grid on a 6 x 6 inch sheet.
Is Cupric Bromide a screenprint?
No, it is a woodcut, which gives the spots a textured, relief-printed appearance.
What is the edition size?
55 impressions, published by Manifold Editions.
Where does the title come from?
Cupric Bromide is a copper compound; Hirst titles spot works after chemical substances.
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.