Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Oleandrigenin (First Edition)
Summary
Oleandrigenin is a two-inch spot woodcut on 410gsm Somerset White paper from Hirst's spot woodcut series, published by The Paragon Press. Its chemical-compound title continues the pharmaceutical naming system that threads through every spot work.
Why It Matters
This small-format woodcut reduces the spot idea to a single circle of color on white, executed in a hand-cut relief medium. It shows how Hirst reworked his most recognizable motif across print processes, giving the woodcut versions a tactile character distinct from the painted spots.
Collector Perspective
For collectors assembling spot runs, each named title like Oleandrigenin is a separate acquisition target. The compact scale sits at the accessible end of the series. Verify the 410gsm Somerset White paper, the edition numbering, and even, crisp inking of the single spot.
Historical Context
The spot woodcuts belong to Hirst's long-running expansion of the spot motif into every viable print medium. Produced with The Paragon Press, they set his clinically repetitive imagery against the grain and warmth of traditional relief printmaking.
FAQ
What medium is Oleandrigenin?
A two-inch spot woodcut on 410gsm Somerset White paper.
Why the chemical name?
Hirst names spot works after chemical and pharmaceutical compounds across the whole series.
What is the publisher?
The Paragon Press.
What condition points matter most?
Clean impression of the spot, intact Somerset White margins, and legible edition numbering.
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.