Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Psalm: Expectans Expectavi (Non-Glitter)
Summary
Psalm: Expectans Expectavi (2015) is a silkscreen with glaze in an edition of 25, published by Other Criteria at 18 x 18 inches. Belonging to Hirst's Psalm series, it composes butterfly wings into a mirror-symmetrical burst under a glossy glaze, titled after a psalm. Each impression is signed and numbered.
Why It Matters
Expectans Expectavi ('I waited patiently') brings a contemplative note to Hirst's butterfly symmetry. The Psalm prints reframe his ornamental Kaleidoscope language as devotional objects, letting the butterfly carry its historic meaning of the soul and resurrection while the scriptural title adds a layer of reflection.
Collector Perspective
With only 25 examples, this is a scarce butterfly edition, and the glazed, non-glitter surface distinguishes it from the glitter variants. Its jewel-toned symmetry reads strongly on the wall. Collectors value the series for its Latin-titled coherence and the discipline of a small print run.
Historical Context
Hirst's butterflies appear from 1989 onward; the Kaleidoscope paintings launched in 2001 with It's a Wonderful World, drawing on Victorian pattern and stained glass. The Psalm series, published through the artist's own Other Criteria, applies that visual system to sacred texts.
FAQ
What does the title reference?
It is Latin from the Psalms, roughly 'I waited patiently,' linking the print to scripture.
How is the image constructed?
From symmetrically arranged butterfly-wing forms, characteristic of Hirst's Kaleidoscope method.
What is the edition size?
Twenty-five, published by Other Criteria and each signed and numbered.
What finish does it have?
A glaze over the silkscreen; this is the non-glitter version.
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.