
Gauntlet Gallery — Jamie Reid Print Index
The Beast 4 Peace (Stamped Edition)
Summary
'The Beast 4 Peace (Stamped Edition)' is a 2020 archival inkjet print on heavy matt stock, a collaborative work between L-13's in-house 'pacifist pooch' THE BEAST and Jamie Reid. The stamped edition is one of two formats, with the overall run numbering 113 at 39 x 30.5 cm.
Why It Matters
The piece captures the playful, collaborative spirit of Reid's later work with the L-13 studio. Pairing his rebel-romantic pacifism with the studio's mascot THE BEAST, it turns an anti-war message into something wry and communal. The stamped edition marks a distinct variant within a small overall run.
Collector Perspective
The stamped format distinguishes this from the signed edition, so buyers should confirm which variant they hold and its place within the 113-strong run. Heavy matt stock frames well. As a collaborative and characterful piece, its appeal rests on the L-13 narrative and Reid's peace theme rather than his marquee Queen imagery.
Historical Context
L-13 Light Industrial Workshop has been Reid's principal collaborator and publisher in his later career, producing many of his editions. THE BEAST is a recurring studio persona. This print reflects the collective, humour-laced ethos of that partnership, extending Reid's pacifist strand into the pandemic year.
FAQ
Who collaborated on this work?
L-13's mascot THE BEAST and artist Jamie Reid.
How does the stamped edition differ?
It is one of two formats; the other is a signed edition.
What is the overall edition size?
113, printed on heavy matt stock at 39 x 30.5 cm.
About the Artist
Jamie Reid (1947–2023) was a British artist best known for creating the visual identity of the Sex Pistols and the punk movement. His ransom-note lettering, cut-and-paste collage, and defaced imagery, including the safety-pinned Queen for "God Save the Queen" (1977), became defining icons of punk graphic design. Rooted in the Situationist and anarchist traditions, Reid produced record sleeves, posters, and political art across a five-decade career. His work is held in major collections and remains among the most recognizable and influential graphic art of the twentieth century.
Collecting Jamie Reid at Gauntlet Gallery
What should I look for when buying Jamie Reid work?
Distinguish original 1970s printed ephemera (record sleeves, posters, flyers) from later signed limited-edition prints and screen prints. Original period pieces are prized for their historical role but vary widely in condition; later editions are typically signed and numbered. Gauntlet Gallery documents the era, format, and edition details of each Reid piece so buyers understand exactly what they are acquiring.
How is a Jamie Reid piece authenticated?
Authentication relies on provenance, the hand signature on later editions, publisher or estate documentation, and comparison to known published works. Given the volume of reproductions of iconic punk imagery, distinguishing an authorized signed edition or original period print from a later poster reprint is essential. Gauntlet Gallery provides the supporting paperwork and provenance available for each work.
What drives value in Jamie Reid's work?
Historical significance is the primary driver, with original 1976–1978 punk-era material and Sex Pistols-related pieces commanding the strongest interest. Signature, edition size, condition, and direct ties to landmark releases all affect price. Documented original ephemera and signed low-edition prints in good condition hold value best.