Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Tryptophan
Summary
Tryptophan is a 2010 colour woodcut on Somerset paper, measuring 40 x 40 inches (101.6 x 101.6 cm), published by Paragon Press. Signed in pencil and numbered on the reverse in an edition of 48, it translates Hirst's spot vocabulary into a large-scale relief print on premium cotton stock.
Why It Matters
At forty inches square, Tryptophan is an unusually large woodcut, a technically demanding feat given the registration precision relief printing requires. The scientific title, referencing the amino acid, ties the work to Hirst's ongoing engagement with pharmacology and biochemistry as sources for his spot compositions.
Collector Perspective
The large square format and edition of 48 make Tryptophan a significant collector piece within Hirst's woodcut spots. Somerset paper is a respected archival cotton stock. Note the split signing convention, pencil signature on the front and numbering on the reverse, and confirm both when authenticating.
Historical Context
Produced with Paragon Press, Tryptophan belongs to Hirst's early-2010s project of reinterpreting his spot paintings through traditional woodcut. The chemical and pharmaceutical titling connects it to the spot series' long-running dialogue with medicine, science, and the language of the laboratory.
FAQ
What does the title Tryptophan refer to?
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid; Hirst frequently titles spot works after chemicals and pharmaceutical compounds.
How is the work signed?
It is signed in pencil on the front and numbered on the reverse.
What paper and size?
It is a 40 x 40 inch colour woodcut on Somerset archival paper.
What is the edition size?
It was published in an edition of 48 by Paragon Press.
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.