Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
H17-1 Civilisation Rising (Timed Edition)
Summary
H17-1 Civilisation Rising (2024) opens Hirst's four-part Civilisation series, a Giclée on Cotton Smooth Rag hand-signed and numbered on the front. Framed, it measures roughly 143 x 112 cm. Issued by HENI as a timed edition, it sets the sequence in motion with its title of ascent and emergence.
Why It Matters
As the first movement (H17-1) in a four-part narrative arc, Civilisation Rising establishes a conceptual sweep, rise, fall, explanation, and explosion, that is rare among Hirst's editions. Its timed-edition format means the final run size is set by demand during the sale window rather than fixed in advance.
Collector Perspective
Printing on Cotton Smooth Rag, an archival fine-art paper, signals a more traditional works-on-paper presentation than the aluminium-mounted series. Front-signing is standard here. Because the edition is timed, collectors should confirm the final run once HENI closes the window, and note that framed sizing may differ from the sheet.
Historical Context
Hirst has long grappled with grand themes of order, belief, and collapse, from his medicine cabinets to his memento mori. The Civilisation suite frames those concerns as a four-stage narrative. Released through HENI in 2024, it reflects the publisher's timed-edition model applied to a conceptually sequenced group.
FAQ
What is this print's place in the series?
It is H17-1, the first of four in the Civilisation series: Rising, Falling, Explained, and Exploding.
What paper is used?
It is a Giclée printed on Cotton Smooth Rag, an archival fine-art paper.
How is it signed?
Hand-signed and numbered by Hirst on the front of the print.
Is the edition size fixed?
No. As a timed edition, the final run is determined by sales during the offer window.
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.