Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
For The Love Of God, Pray
Summary
For The Love Of God, Pray is a 2007 silkscreen with glazes measuring 67.5 x 52 cm, published by Other Criteria in a signed and numbered edition of 750. The larger of the two 'Beyond Belief' skull prints, it presents Hirst's diamond-covered platinum skull with a scale and surface luster suited to the image.
Why It Matters
With only 750 impressions and a hand-signed, numbered format, Pray is the scarcer and more sought-after of the pair depicting For the Love of God. Its larger format lets the glazed, jeweled surface register more fully, making it the connoisseur's choice among the skull prints.
Collector Perspective
Signed and numbered by Hirst, this edition of 750 sits well below the 1,700-run companion print. The glazes are essential to the effect and vulnerable to scuffing, so surface condition is paramount. Verify the pencil signature and numbering, published by Other Criteria.
Historical Context
Issued alongside the 2007 'Beyond Belief' show at White Cube, the print extends Hirst's long dialogue with death, faith and value. The original skull, a diamond-pavé memento mori, was described as without precedent, and this print made its image collectible.
FAQ
How does Pray differ from Believe?
Pray is larger at 67.5 x 52 cm, hand-signed, and issued in the smaller edition of 750.
Who published this print?
It was published by Other Criteria in 2007.
Is it signed?
Yes, each impression is signed and numbered by the artist.
What image does it show?
Hirst's platinum skull covered in 8,601 diamonds, For the Love of God.
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.