Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
To Believe
Summary
To Believe is a butterfly etching by Damien Hirst, dated 2008 with a 250 x 300 mm image on a 412 x 443 mm sheet, signed and stamped in an edition of 75. Its finely detailed butterfly rises from a black ground, the title extending the 'To' phrase group toward themes of faith and conviction.
Why It Matters
To Believe lends a spiritual charge to Hirst's butterfly motif, its verb-phrase title echoing the religious undercurrent that runs through his work. As an etching it demonstrates the artist's engagement with a traditional, painstaking medium, offering a contemplative counterpoint to the glossed color of his larger prints.
Collector Perspective
An edition of 75, signed and stamped, makes To Believe a relatively accessible Hirst etching while retaining series pedigree. Its place within the 'To' phrase group encourages set collecting, and the faith-oriented title gives it interpretive appeal for collectors attentive to the spiritual dimension of Hirst's butterflies.
Historical Context
Dated 2008, To Believe forms part of Hirst's butterfly etchings, a group whose titles span love, regeneration, spirituality and death. The butterfly's long-standing association with the soul and belief informs the title, linking contemporary printmaking to a deep symbolic lineage.
FAQ
What is the image size?
The image measures 250 x 300 mm on a 412 x 443 mm sheet.
How many were made?
It is from an edition of 75, each signed and stamped.
What does the title suggest?
To Believe carries themes of faith and conviction, tapping the spiritual side of Hirst's butterfly symbolism.
What year is it dated?
It is dated 2008.
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.