Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Equilin (First Edition)
Summary
Equilin is a single twelve-inch spot woodcut printed on 410gsm Somerset White paper, published by The Paragon Press in 2012. The larger spot scale distinguishes it from the two-inch woodcuts, while the chemical-compound title keeps it within Hirst's pharmaceutical naming framework.
Why It Matters
At twelve inches, the single spot commands the sheet with far more presence than the miniature versions. The larger circle emphasizes the woodcut's grain and the physicality of the printed color, making Equilin a bolder, more wall-forward statement within the spot woodcut program.
Collector Perspective
The twelve-inch spots are the more visually assertive tier of the woodcut series and read strongly at a distance. Collectors should confirm the 410gsm Somerset White stock, the 2012 Paragon Press attribution, edition numbering, and that the enlarged spot is evenly and cleanly printed.
Historical Context
By 2012 Hirst's spot works had become one of the most extensive print projects in contemporary art. The larger-format woodcuts, published through The Paragon Press, gave the motif monumentality while retaining the handmade relief texture that defines the woodcut treatment.
FAQ
How big is the spot?
A single twelve-inch spot, larger than the two-inch woodcut variants.
What year and publisher?
Published by The Paragon Press in 2012.
What paper is used?
410gsm Somerset White paper.
Why choose the larger format?
The twelve-inch spot has greater wall presence and shows the woodcut grain more prominently than the small versions.
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.