Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Phenyl Salicylate (First Edition)
Summary
Phenyl Salicylate (First Edition) is a 2012 Manifold Editions woodcut carrying two-inch spots on a 6 x 6 inch sheet. Its square format holds an evenly spaced grid of medium dots, with the woodcut process lending each spot a printed-relief texture distinct from the flat mechanical finish of Hirst's screenprinted spots.
Why It Matters
The two-inch spots strike a balance between the grid discipline of the series and the material character of woodcut, letting colour and grain both register. As a First Edition Manifold woodcut, Phenyl Salicylate participates in Hirst's deliberate reworking of his most recognisable motif into a hand-cut, tactile format.
Collector Perspective
The 6 x 6 inch square and edition of 55 make this a collectible, display-friendly spot at accessible scale. Its two-inch spots give slightly bolder presence than the one-inch variants. Buyers should confirm signature and numbering, check for consistent ink coverage across the block, and retain Manifold Editions provenance materials.
Historical Context
Phenyl Salicylate takes its title from a chemical compound, following Hirst's pharmaceutical naming system for the spots. Conceived in the late 1980s and endlessly extended, the spot series found renewed material expression in the 2012 Manifold woodcuts, which translate the grid into one of the oldest relief printing methods.
FAQ
What size are the spots?
The spots are two inches in diameter on a 6 x 6 inch sheet.
What does First Edition mean here?
It designates this as the first edition of the Phenyl Salicylate woodcut from Manifold Editions.
What is the medium?
It is a woodcut, giving the spots a relief texture rather than a flat screenprinted surface.
How many were made?
It was published in an edition of 55.
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.