Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Sudafed PE
Summary
Sudafed PE is a 2014 polyurethane resin sculpture with ink pigment, editioned at 30 and measuring 30 cm long by 13 cm in diameter. Numbered, signed and dated in the cast and published by Paul Stolper Gallery, it enlarges a widely recognized over-the-counter medication into a glossy capsule-form object.
Why It Matters
By elevating an ordinary pharmacy-shelf remedy to sculptural scale, Hirst spotlights how thoroughly branded medicine permeates daily life. The capsule's clean, product-perfect form dignifies a mundane household item, continuing his inquiry into the design, branding and quiet trust embedded in the drugs people take routinely.
Collector Perspective
This capsule multiple is a companion to Sudafed PE Sinus, sharing the 30 cm capsule format and edition of 30. Collectors distinguish the two by the specific named product, so title verification matters. Cast-in signing, numbering and dating authenticate the piece; resin clarity and gloss are the key condition factors for the intended pristine appearance.
Historical Context
The 2014 Paul Stolper resin series takes real branded medications as subjects, from common remedies to prescription drugs. Sudafed PE and Sudafed PE Sinus show how Hirst mined closely related products for distinct works, extending his Pharmacy-era vocabulary into a family of freestanding, consumer-referential objects.
FAQ
How does this differ from Sudafed PE Sinus?
Both are 30 cm resin capsules in editions of 30 from the same 2014 series; they are distinguished by the specific named product.
What is it made of?
Polyurethane resin with ink pigment, cast as an enlarged capsule.
What is the edition size?
The edition is 30, each numbered, signed and dated in the cast.
Who published the work?
Paul Stolper Gallery, as part of Hirst's 2014 resin pill sculptures.
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.