Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Legend (First Edition)
Summary
'Legend' is a 2016 porcelain sculpture of a winged horse, the companion to 'Myth', handcrafted by the Nymphenburg Porcelain Makers in an edition of 20. Rising about 23 inches from base to wingtip, it carries the artist's signature, edition number, and Nymphenburg maker's mark on the base.
Why It Matters
Like its partner, 'Legend' renders a mythical creature with an anatomical cross-section exposing the muscle and flesh beneath. Hirst's own words frame science as a form of belief, and the winged horse becomes a vessel for his enduring meditation on the meeting point of biology, faith, and imagination.
Collector Perspective
The edition of 20 and larger, winged silhouette make 'Legend' one of the more sculpturally ambitious Hirst editions in this group. It is most compelling acquired alongside 'Myth', but stands as a scarce, finely crafted object in its own right, appealing to collectors of porcelain and contemporary sculpture alike.
Historical Context
'Myth' and 'Legend' together recast Hirst's bronze sculptures of the same titles into porcelain, continuing his examination of science, religion, and belief. The collaboration with historic Munich makers situates the pair within both a centuries-old craft tradition and Hirst's contemporary conceptual practice.
FAQ
What creature does 'Legend' depict?
A winged horse, shown with an anatomical cross-section revealing the flesh and musculature beneath the skin.
How does it relate to 'Myth'?
'Myth' (a unicorn) and 'Legend' (a winged horse) are companion works, both recreating Hirst's bronze sculptures in porcelain in editions of 20.
Who produced the sculpture?
It was handcrafted by the renowned Nymphenburg Porcelain Makers in Munich, with the maker's mark on the base.
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.