Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
H17-2 Civilisation Falling (Timed Edition)
Summary
H17-2 Civilisation Falling (2024) is the second work in 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, its title turns the sequence toward decline and collapse.
Why It Matters
As the counterweight to Rising, Civilisation Falling supplies the tension at the heart of the four-part arc. Its role in the narrative, paired with a timed-edition structure whose final size reflects demand within the sale window, makes it a key piece for collectors reading the suite as a whole.
Collector Perspective
The archival Cotton Smooth Rag support and front-signing match the rest of the series, favoring a traditional works-on-paper look. Timed editions carry no pre-set cap, so confirm the closing run with HENI. Collectors pursuing the narrative should track all four H17 numbers, since the sequence gains meaning when kept together.
Historical Context
Themes of impermanence and mortality thread through Hirst's entire career, from formaldehyde vitrines to skull imagery. Falling gives that fascination a civilizational scale within the four-stage Civilisation narrative, released via HENI's 2024 timed-edition program on fine-art paper.
FAQ
Where does Falling sit in the series?
It is H17-2, the second of four Civilisation prints, following Rising.
What is the medium?
A Giclée on Cotton Smooth Rag archival paper, hand-signed and numbered on the front.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 143 x 112 cm framed; the sheet size may differ.
How is scarcity determined?
It is a timed edition, so the final number produced depends on demand during the sale 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.