Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Psalm: Benedicam Domino (Non-Glitter)
Summary
Psalm: Benedicam Domino (2015) is a silkscreen with glaze from Hirst's Psalm series, published by Other Criteria in an edition of 25 at 18 x 18 inches. Its symmetrical, kaleidoscopic composition is built from massed butterfly wings, the Latin title drawn from the Book of Psalms. Each print is signed and numbered.
Why It Matters
The Psalm prints extend Hirst's Kaleidoscope paintings into an explicitly devotional register, each named for a psalm. Benedicam Domino ('I will bless the Lord') pairs the butterfly's traditional symbolism of the soul and resurrection with sacred text, uniting beauty and mortality in a single mandala-like image.
Collector Perspective
At just 25 examples, the Psalm prints are among Hirst's tightest editions, and the non-glitter, glazed version has its own following. The square format and jewel-like symmetry make it highly displayable. Collectors prize the small edition size and the series' completist appeal across the many named psalms.
Historical Context
Hirst began using real butterflies as early as 1989, calling the insect a 'universal trigger.' The Kaleidoscope paintings, first realized in 2001 with It's a Wonderful World, drew on stained-glass and Victorian decorative patterns; the Psalm series applies that language to sacred titles.
FAQ
What does the title mean?
Benedicam Domino is Latin from the Psalms, roughly 'I will bless the Lord,' tying the image to devotional tradition.
What is the image made of?
A symmetrical kaleidoscopic composition assembled from butterfly-wing forms, a hallmark of Hirst's Kaleidoscope works.
How large is the edition?
This non-glitter version was published by Other Criteria in an edition of 25, signed and numbered.
Why butterflies?
Hirst uses the butterfly as a symbol of the soul and resurrection, calling it a 'universal trigger.'
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.