Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Sanctum - Chancel
Summary
"Sanctum - Chancel" is an etching from Damien Hirst's six-part Sanctum series, published by Paragon Press in an edition of 59. Each impression is signed by the artist and numbered on the reverse, with sheet sizes varying across the suite. This is the "Chancel" plate within the architecturally themed group.
Why It Matters
Within the Sanctum series, "Chancel", the space around a church's altar, deepens the suite's engagement with sacred architecture and its symbolic weight. The etching medium and Paragon Press publication mark this as part of Hirst's more considered, portfolio-based printmaking rather than his high-volume commercial editions.
Collector Perspective
With only 59 impressions, the series is tightly editioned, and its unity as a six-part suite rewards collectors pursuing complete sets. Paragon Press provenance underscores its quality. Verify the front signature and reverse numbering, and because the sheets vary in size across the series, confirm the specific dimensions of the individual impression being considered.
Historical Context
The chancel houses the altar and choir in a church, and its inclusion continues the Sanctum suite's architectural meditation on the sacred and the memorial. These concerns echo the mortality themes central to Hirst's broader body of work. Paragon Press, a leading publisher of contemporary British editions, produced this intaglio portfolio.
FAQ
What does "Chancel" refer to?
The chancel is the area of a church around the altar; it names one of the six etchings in the Sanctum suite.
What is the edition size?
An edition of 59, signed and numbered on the reverse.
Who published the Sanctum series?
Paragon Press.
Do the prints share one sheet size?
No, sheet sizes vary across the series.
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.