Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Sanctum - Spire
Summary
Spire is a 2009 etching from Hirst's six-plate Sanctum suite, published by Paragon Press in an edition of 59. As with its companion prints, the title evokes ecclesiastical architecture, translating Hirst's ongoing preoccupation with structure, ascension and the sacred into the precise, tactile idiom of the etched plate.
Why It Matters
Spire belongs to a body of work where Hirst set aside spectacle for the rigor of intaglio. The modest edition of 59 makes each impression comparatively scarce, and the suite as a whole documents the artist's serious, sustained engagement with traditional printmaking craft.
Collector Perspective
Every sheet is signed by the artist and numbered on the reverse. Buyers should verify the reverse numbering and, where possible, the relationship to the full six-plate Sanctum set, since completeness of the suite meaningfully shapes how collectors regard individual plates like Spire.
Historical Context
Produced at the height of Hirst's international prominence, the Sanctum etchings show a more meditative side of a practice usually defined by scale and shock. The sacred-architecture titles connect the suite to the mortality and transcendence themes that define much of his output.
FAQ
How many impressions of Spire exist?
It was published in an edition of 59 by Paragon Press in 2009.
Where is the signature and number?
Each print is signed by the artist and numbered on the reverse.
What series does Spire belong to?
It is one of six etchings comprising the Sanctum suite.
Who published the print?
Paragon Press, London, a longtime publisher of Hirst's editions.
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.