Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
To Love
Summary
"To Love" is a 2008 butterfly etching by Damien Hirst, published by Other Criteria in a signed and stamped edition of 75. The 250 x 300 mm image on a 412 x 443 mm sheet presents a finely worked single butterfly emerging from a black background, like a specimen in a collector's case.
Why It Matters
The title makes the series' symbolism explicit: the butterfly as an emblem of love, one of the several meanings Hirst draws on across the group. As an etching rather than a screenprint, it foregrounds line, texture and tonal depth, offering a quieter, more draughtsman-like counterpart to his better-known kaleidoscope canvases.
Collector Perspective
The edition of 75 keeps supply modest relative to Hirst's larger spot-print runs. Collectors drawn to "To Love" typically value the intimate scale and the intaglio handling. Verify the artist's signature and the edition stamp, and confirm Other Criteria as publisher. The romantic title makes it a natural pairing piece within the butterfly set.
Historical Context
Butterflies have been depicted in art, set in resin and written about for centuries, carrying meanings of love, fortune, spirituality and death. Hirst folds those traditions into a body of work he has developed since his early days. "To Love" sits among the newest additions to that long-running motif, published through his own imprint.
FAQ
What does the title "To Love" reference?
It draws on the butterfly's long-standing symbolism of love, one of several meanings Hirst references across the series titles.
What is the sheet size?
The sheet measures 412 x 443 mm, with a 250 x 300 mm image.
Is it signed?
Yes, each etching is signed and stamped, in an edition of 75.
What year was it made?
The etching dates to 2008 and was published by Other Criteria.
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.