Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Two Parrots (Small)
Summary
Two Parrots (Small) is a 2012 lithograph published by Other Criteria in a signed and numbered edition of 75, measuring 495 x 380 mm (19 x 15 inches). It reproduces one of Hirst's still-life paintings of exotic birds, part of a body of work he painted from life in his Devon studio.
Why It Matters
This series marks a distinct departure from Hirst's collaborative studio output. Unlike the spot paintings or photorealist works, these bird still lifes are described as more personal, painted directly from life by Hirst himself. The lithograph brings that intimate, hand-painted register to a broader audience while retaining the traditional still-life format.
Collector Perspective
An edition of 75, hand-signed and numbered, sits comfortably in the collectible middle of Hirst's print range. The subject matter, richly coloured parrots, offers a warmer, more figurative alternative to his conceptual pieces. The Small designation indicates a companion large-format version exists, so confirm dimensions and the (Small) qualifier when acquiring.
Historical Context
Hirst has said painting was always central to his practice, and this Devon-studio body of work returns to traditional still life, arranging natural and inanimate elements, sometimes as memento mori, alongside motifs from his earlier sculptures and installations. The exotic birds echo his lifelong interest in the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
FAQ
What is the medium and edition?
It is a lithograph published by Other Criteria, signed and numbered in an edition of 75.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 495 x 380 mm, roughly 19 x 15 inches.
How does this work differ from Hirst's spot paintings?
The bird still lifes were painted from life by Hirst personally in his Devon studio, rather than through the collaborative studio process behind the spots.
Does 'Small' mean a larger version exists?
The (Small) designation indicates a companion larger-format edition of the same image.
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.