Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living (Lenticular)
Summary
This 2013 lenticular, digitally printed on PETG plastic, measures 80 x 120 cm and comes from an edition of 150, signed and numbered. It borrows the title of Hirst's landmark 1991 tiger shark in formaldehyde, translating that iconic memento-mori subject into a shifting, angle-dependent image.
Why It Matters
The title references arguably Hirst's most famous work, the suspended shark that defined the Young British Artists moment. Recasting it as a lenticular lets the viewer's movement animate the subject, making the theme of death-in-life literally kinetic rather than fixed in a tank.
Collector Perspective
The direct link to the celebrated shark piece gives this edition strong narrative appeal for collectors who cannot acquire the original vitrine work. The large 80 x 120 cm format and motion effect make it a statement object. The edition of 150 is signed and numbered for provenance.
Historical Context
The original The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living (1991) is a cornerstone of 1990s British art. This lenticular, published by Paul Stolper Gallery, revisits that touchstone two decades later, extending Hirst's inquiry into mortality into a new optical medium.
FAQ
Is this the actual shark artwork?
No. It is a 2013 lenticular print that shares the title of Hirst's 1991 shark-in-formaldehyde work and references its memento-mori theme.
What makes it move?
The lenticular printing on PETG plastic shifts the image as the viewer changes viewing angle.
How large is it?
It measures 80 x 120 cm, one of the larger formats in Hirst's lenticular editions.
What is the edition size?
Edition of 150, signed and numbered, published by Paul Stolper Gallery.
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.