Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Glycine Cresol Red
Summary
Glycine Cresol Red is a 2011 woodcut by Damien Hirst, published by Manifold Editions in an edition of 55 at 10 x 10 inches. Realized through carved wood blocks, it presents the artist's spot motif with the texture of relief printing. Its title combines chemical substances, following Hirst's practice of naming spot works after compounds used by the pharmaceutical industry.
Why It Matters
Published by Manifold Editions rather than Other Criteria, this woodcut broadens the spot series across publishers and reaffirms Hirst's early interest in printmaking and the multiple. The small 10-inch square format and edition of 55 make it an intimate, scarce example of the pharmaceutical spots that seduce through exuberant, non-repeating colour.
Collector Perspective
At 10 x 10 inches with an edition of 55, this is a compact, scarce woodcut ideal for close viewing or a grouped spot display. The relief medium and Manifold Editions imprint distinguish it from the more common silkscreens. Collectors should verify the signature and numbering and appreciate the labour-intensive process, in which each spot is individually inked before printing.
Historical Context
Hirst introduced the spot paintings in 1988 as a system of coloured spots in a grid, governed by the rule that each colour is used only once per work. He was drawn to printmaking and the multiple from the outset of his career. Titles derived from pharmaceutical compounds, like Glycine Cresol Red, give the exuberant colour a clinical, conceptual counterweight.
FAQ
Who published this print?
It was published by Manifold Editions, distinct from Hirst's Other Criteria imprint.
What medium is it?
It is a woodcut, a relief-printing process, in an edition of 55.
What does the title mean?
It combines chemical substance names, following Hirst's convention of titling spot works after pharmaceutical compounds.
How large is it?
The print measures 10 x 10 inches, a compact square format.
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.