Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
For The Love Of God, Enlightenment
Summary
For The Love Of God, Enlightenment is a 2012 silkscreen on paper with diamond dust by Damien Hirst, published by Other Criteria in an edition of 250 plus 10 artist's proofs. At 100 x 75 cm, it depicts the diamond-encrusted platinum skull that is among Hirst's most famous sculptures. The diamond dust gives the print a glittering, light-catching surface.
Why It Matters
This print derives from For the Love of God, the 2007 diamond skull that became one of the most talked-about artworks of the century, a direct statement on wealth, death, and value. As an editioned image with diamond dust, it makes that iconic memento mori accessible on paper while retaining the sparkle central to the original's meaning.
Collector Perspective
Tied to Hirst's single most recognizable object, this is a high-recognition image for collectors. The edition of 250 plus 10 AP is larger than the spot woodcuts but supported by strong demand for the skull motif. The diamond dust demands careful, glare-aware framing to protect the reflective surface. Confirm edition details and inspect the dusted surface for even coverage.
Historical Context
In 2007 Hirst unveiled For the Love of God, a platinum cast of a human skull set with over 8,000 diamonds, a work that crystallized his memento mori themes and the art market's fascination with value. Diamond-dust prints let that image circulate widely. Skulls and the confrontation with mortality run throughout Hirst's career, from his vitrines to these editions.
FAQ
What is the edition size?
The print was issued in an edition of 250, with an additional 10 artist's proofs.
What is diamond dust?
Finely ground glittering particles applied to the surface so the print catches and reflects light, echoing the original diamond skull.
What is the source image?
It derives from For the Love of God, Hirst's 2007 diamond-encrusted platinum skull sculpture.
What does the work represent?
It is a memento mori, a meditation on death, wealth, and value that defines much of Hirst's practice.
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.