Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Pardon (Non Diamond Dust)
Summary
Pardon is a 2012 silkscreen print produced by Other Criteria in a tight edition of 25, measuring 91.5 x 91.5 cm. This is the non-diamond-dust variant, meaning the composition is realized purely in silkscreen ink rather than being finished with Hirst's signature scattered diamond-dust glitter surface.
Why It Matters
The small edition of 25 sets this apart from Hirst's larger open-run editions. Working at a near-square metre scale, the print carries the graphic authority of a wall-sized work. The distinction between diamond-dust and non-diamond-dust versions is meaningful within Hirst's catalogue, letting collectors compare how the same image reads with and without the reflective embellishment.
Collector Perspective
An edition of 25 is genuinely scarce for a Hirst print, and the large square format gives it real presence. The non-diamond-dust designation is a specific collecting distinction: some collectors prefer the cleaner, matte silkscreen surface, while others seek the sparkling counterpart. Verify which version any example is before acquiring, as the two are easily conflated.
Historical Context
Diamond dust, an industrial glitter of crushed glass or diamond fragments, has been a recurring Hirst finishing device that links his prints to the luxury-and-mortality themes of the skull and butterfly works. Offering a print in both a dusted and non-dusted state reflects Hirst's studio practice of issuing controlled variants, a strategy that shapes how the secondary market differentiates editions.
FAQ
How large is this print?
It measures 91.5 x 91.5 cm (915 x 915 mm), a near-square format close to one metre on each side.
What does 'non-diamond-dust' mean?
It indicates this version is a plain silkscreen without the scattered diamond-dust glitter surface applied to the alternate variant.
How many were produced?
This variant was produced by Other Criteria in an edition of 25 in 2012.
Is there a diamond-dust version too?
Yes. A separate diamond-dust variant exists, so confirm which state you are looking at before purchase.
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.