Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Rhodotorulic Acid (First Edition)
Summary
Rhodotorulic Acid is a two-inch spot woodcut printed on 410gsm Somerset White paper, part of Hirst's spot woodcut series through The Paragon Press. The title takes its name from a chemical compound, in keeping with the pharmaceutical naming that unifies the spot works.
Why It Matters
The piece embodies the encyclopedic ambition of the spot series, where each title expands an ever-growing lexicon of chemical names. In woodcut form, the single small spot becomes a study in pure color and circular geometry rendered through a traditional relief process.
Collector Perspective
Collectors treat titles such as Rhodotorulic Acid as individual pieces within a larger collecting set. The two-inch format offers an accessible scale. Priorities are confirming the Somerset White 410gsm sheet, the edition number, and consistent, clean impression of the color spot.
Historical Context
Hirst's spots span painting, screenprint, and, via The Paragon Press, woodcut. Translating the motif into carved relief printing linked his most industrially conceived series to one of the oldest printmaking traditions, a characteristic Hirst juxtaposition.
FAQ
What is the format of the piece?
A single two-inch spot rendered as a woodcut on 410gsm Somerset White paper.
Where does the title come from?
From a chemical compound name, consistent with Hirst's spot-series naming convention.
Who published the series?
The Paragon Press published Hirst's spot woodcuts.
How should I verify authenticity?
Check the Somerset White stock, edition numbering, and the quality of the woodcut impression against known series details.
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.