Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
The Dead (Silver Gloss Topaz Skull)
Summary
The Dead (Silver Gloss Topaz Skull) (2009) is a two-colour foil block print by Damien Hirst, measuring 72 x 51 cm, published by Paul Stolper and Other Criteria in an edition of 15. Twelve impressions were released individually and three reserved for portfolio sets, its metallic foil surface rendering the skull as a lustrous, jewel-toned emblem.
Why It Matters
The Dead series brought Hirst's central skull motif into the reflective, decorative language of foil block printing. First shown at Other Criteria's New Bond Street store in October 2009, the group of 30 prints translated the memento mori theme, so associated with his diamond skull, into a shimmering, small-edition format that catches and shifts light.
Collector Perspective
With an edition of just 15, of which only 12 were available as individual prints, this foil block is markedly scarcer than Hirst's larger screenprint runs. The dual Paul Stolper and Other Criteria publication provides strong provenance. Its metallic surface and jewel-named colorway give it a distinct visual identity that sets it apart from his paper-based skull works.
Historical Context
Exhibited in October 2009 at Other Criteria's New Bond Street store, The Dead comprised 30 foil block prints published jointly by Paul Stolper and Other Criteria. The series arrived in the wake of Hirst's diamond-encrusted skull For the Love of God, extending his exploration of mortality and material luxury into the print medium.
FAQ
What is the edition size?
It is an edition of 15, with 12 available as individual prints and 3 reserved for portfolio sets.
What is the printing technique?
It is a two-colour foil block print, measuring 72 x 51 cm.
Who published it?
It was published jointly by Paul Stolper and Other Criteria.
Where was The Dead series first shown?
At Other Criteria's New Bond Street store in October 2009, as a set of 30 foil block prints.
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.