Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Mepartricin (First Edition)
Summary
Mepartricin is a single twelve-inch spot woodcut on 410gsm Somerset White paper, published by The Paragon Press in 2012. It belongs to the larger-format tier of the spot woodcut series, with a chemical-compound title in line with Hirst's pharmaceutical naming system.
Why It Matters
The twelve-inch scale gives Mepartricin a commanding single-spot presence, foregrounding the color and the woodcut's relief texture. It illustrates how Hirst scaled his signature motif up and down across the print program, each size shifting the viewing experience.
Collector Perspective
As a larger-format woodcut, this title reads well as a standalone display piece rather than only as part of a set. Collectors should verify the Somerset White 410gsm stock, the 2012 Paragon Press provenance, edition numbering, and clean, even inking of the enlarged spot.
Historical Context
The spot woodcuts extended Hirst's decades-long spot project into traditional relief printing. Published by The Paragon Press in 2012, the twelve-inch works balanced the series' clinical repetition against the warmth and grain of hand-cut woodblock printing.
FAQ
What is the spot size?
A single twelve-inch spot on the sheet.
Where does the name come from?
Mepartricin is a chemical compound, consistent with Hirst's spot naming convention.
What is the paper and publisher?
410gsm Somerset White paper, published by The Paragon Press in 2012.
Is it suited to standalone display?
Yes, the larger twelve-inch format gives it strong individual wall presence.
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.