Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
H18-5 Intricacy
Summary
H18-5 Intricacy (2024) closes Hirst's five-part H18 series, a Diasec-mounted Giclée on aluminium composite panel measuring 85 x 140 cm. Published by HENI in an edition of 180 plus 20 APs, its title points to the fine, layered detail that rewards close and sustained looking.
Why It Matters
As the fifth and final entry, Intricacy completes the H18 suite and can hold added significance for collectors closing out the set. Its matched format and edition of 180 plus 20 APs bookend a group unified by dense pattern, with the title foregrounding the meticulous complexity of the surface.
Collector Perspective
The Diasec-on-aluminium build sharpens the fine detail across the 85 x 140 cm field, rewarding in-person inspection. A capped 180 plus 20 APs run gives clear scarcity. As the closing H18-5, it is often the last piece completists seek, which can concentrate demand from set-focused buyers.
Historical Context
Hirst's fascination with intricate, near-obsessive detail runs from his butterfly mosaics to his kaleidoscopic compositions. Intricacy caps HENI's 2024 series of large aluminium-mounted Giclées, distilling the group's theme of patterned complexity into its explicitly named conclusion.
FAQ
Is Intricacy the last in the series?
Yes. It is H18-5, the fifth and final print in the H18 series.
What is the edition size?
180 plus 20 artist's proofs.
What medium and dimensions?
A Diasec-mounted Giclée on aluminium composite panel, 85 x 140 cm.
Does completing the set matter?
Many collectors value assembling all five H18 prints; as the closing work, Intricacy is frequently the final piece sought to complete the suite.
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.