Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Vipera Lebetina (First edition)
Summary
Vipera Lebetina is a 2012 glazed silkscreen from Damien Hirst's spot series, published by Other Criteria in an edition of 100. Measuring 70 x 63.5 cm, it arranges individually inked, non-repeating colour spots in a compact grid. Named for a species of viper, the print is signed and numbered, extending Hirst's naming convention beyond pharmaceuticals into zoological classification.
Why It Matters
Vipera Lebetina shows Hirst titling a spot print after a venomous snake, linking the series' orderly colour to themes of danger and the natural world. Together with the pharmaceutical-named works, it demonstrates the breadth of the scientific lexicon Hirst draws on. Its edition of 100 places it among the more tightly editioned spot prints.
Collector Perspective
The compact 70 x 63.5 cm format and edition of 100 make this a scarcer, space-friendly spot print, well suited to a grouped display of multiple works. The glaze finish rewards close viewing but needs glare-controlling framing. As with all spot prints, verify the signature, numbering, and condition of the glazed surface before purchase.
Historical Context
Hirst's spot paintings, initiated in 1988, hold to one rule: no colour repeats within a work. Produced as prints through Other Criteria, each spot is inked by hand, making the series demanding to realize. Titles referencing species such as Vipera Lebetina sit alongside pharmaceutical names, reflecting Hirst's sustained fascination with the systems of science.
FAQ
How large is the edition?
Vipera Lebetina was issued in an edition of 100, each signed and numbered.
What does the title mean?
It is the scientific name of a viper species; Hirst titles his spot prints after chemical and zoological terms.
What are the dimensions?
The print measures 70 x 63.5 cm, a compact near-square format.
Is it a silkscreen?
Yes, a silkscreen finished with a clear glaze; it is signed and numbered by Hirst.
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.