Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Sanctum - Minaret
Summary
Part of Hirst's six-plate Sanctum suite of 2009, Minaret is an etching published by Paragon Press in an edition of 59. The title borrows the architectural vocabulary of sacred space, and the print translates Hirst's fascination with pattern, structure and the transcendent into the intimate, hand-worked language of intaglio.
Why It Matters
The Sanctum series shows Hirst working within the disciplined constraints of etching rather than his large-scale spectacle. At 59 impressions, Minaret is among his tighter print editions, giving collectors a comparatively scarce example of the artist engaging directly with plate, acid and press.
Collector Perspective
Each sheet is signed by the artist and numbered on the reverse, the standard for the suite. Collectors should confirm the reverse numbering and pairing to the six-plate set; individual plates like Minaret circulate separately but derive part of their appeal from belonging to the complete Sanctum group.
Historical Context
By 2009 Hirst was a globally dominant contemporary artist, yet the Sanctum etchings reflect a quieter, more contemplative register. The suite's sacred-architecture titles align with the memento-mori and spiritual themes that run throughout his practice, from vitrines to the diamond skull.
FAQ
What is the edition size of Sanctum – Minaret?
It was published in an edition of 59 by Paragon Press in 2009.
How is the print signed?
Each impression is signed by the artist and numbered on the reverse of the sheet.
Is Minaret a standalone work?
It is one of six etchings in the Sanctum suite; plates circulate individually but belong to a set.
What medium is it?
It is an etching, an intaglio printmaking process, published on the occasion of the 2009 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.