Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
H17-3 Civilisation Explained (Timed Edition)
Summary
H17-3 Civilisation Explained (2024) is the third 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 introduces a note of reflection into the arc.
Why It Matters
Civilisation Explained shifts the sequence from raw rise-and-fall drama toward interpretation, a conceptual pivot that positions it as the reflective heart of the group. Its timed-edition format ties final scarcity to demand within the offer window, in line with the rest of the H17 series.
Collector Perspective
The Cotton Smooth Rag paper and front-signing keep it consistent with its companions as a fine-art work on paper. As a timed edition, the run is uncapped until HENI closes the sale, so verify the final figure. Its third-in-sequence position makes it central for collectors building the complete four-part narrative.
Historical Context
Hirst frequently frames grand systems, science, religion, mortality, as objects of scrutiny rather than settled answers. Explained extends that questioning stance across the Civilisation arc, produced through HENI's 2024 timed-edition Giclée program on archival paper.
FAQ
What is its place in the series?
It is H17-3, the third of four Civilisation prints.
What paper and signing?
Cotton Smooth Rag archival paper, hand-signed and numbered on the front.
What is the framed size?
Approximately 143 x 112 cm framed.
Is it a fixed edition?
No. As a timed edition, the total produced is set 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.