Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Vespula Vidua
Summary
Vespula Vidua is a 2012 glazed silkscreen from Damien Hirst's spot series, published by Other Criteria in an edition of 100. At 92.7 x 111.8 cm it is one of the larger spot prints, filling a wide grid with individually inked, non-repeating colour spots. Its title, drawn from a wasp species, and its signed, numbered status mark it within Hirst's taxonomy-driven naming.
Why It Matters
While many spot prints carry pharmaceutical names, Vespula Vidua takes its title from a species of wasp, showing how Hirst extends his naming system into the broader language of scientific classification. The generous scale and edition of 100 make it a substantial, relatively scarce example of the motif that defines his editioned work.
Collector Perspective
At nearly a metre wide, this is a statement piece with major wall presence, and its edition of 100 lends scarcity. The large glazed surface calls for careful, glare-aware framing and handling. Collectors should confirm the pencil signature and numbering, and examine the wide field for any surface disturbance before acquiring a sheet of this scale.
Historical Context
Hirst's spot paintings, begun in 1988, follow the rule that no colour repeats within a work. As prints through Other Criteria, each spot is inked individually, making the series labour-intensive. Where many titles cite pharmaceuticals, some, like Vespula Vidua, borrow from zoological nomenclature, underscoring Hirst's recurring engagement with science and the natural world.
FAQ
What is the edition size?
Vespula Vidua was released in an edition of 100, each signed and numbered.
What does the title refer to?
It is the scientific name of a wasp species; Hirst draws spot-print titles from scientific classifications as well as pharmaceuticals.
How large is the print?
It measures 92.7 x 111.8 cm, among the larger prints in the spot series.
What is the finish?
A silkscreen with a clear glaze that adds gloss and depth to the surface.
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.