Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Sanctum - Belfry
Summary
"Sanctum - Belfry" is an etching from Damien Hirst's six-part Sanctum series, published by Paragon Press in an edition of 59. Each print is signed by the artist and numbered on the reverse, with sheet sizes varying across the group. This is the "Belfry" plate within the architecturally themed suite.
Why It Matters
As part of the Sanctum series, "Belfry" contributes to a portfolio that reframes Hirst's recurring themes of mortality and the sacred through the imagery of church architecture. It represents his more traditional, intaglio-focused printmaking, distinct from the flat color and mechanical repetition of his spot and butterfly editions.
Collector Perspective
The edition of 59 keeps availability limited, and the piece's role within a coherent six-part suite appeals to collectors assembling complete sets. Paragon Press provenance signals quality. Confirm the artist's front signature and the reverse numbering, and because sheet dimensions vary across the series, verify the measurements of the individual impression on hand.
Historical Context
A belfry, the bell tower of a church, extends the Sanctum suite's architectural conceit and its meditation on the sacred and the memorial. These themes resonate with the mortality and memento mori concerns that run through Hirst's practice. Paragon Press, publisher of many major British contemporary editions, produced this intaglio series.
FAQ
What part of the Sanctum series is this?
It is the "Belfry" etching, one of six architecturally titled plates in the suite.
How is it signed and numbered?
Signed by the artist on the front and numbered on the reverse, in an edition of 59.
Who is the publisher?
Paragon Press.
What is the sheet size?
Sheet sizes vary across the series, so individual measurements should be confirmed per impression.
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.