At the Charterhouse auction in Sherborne, at the beginning of 2026, two series of prints by Damien Hirst stand out alongside other works of modern and contemporary art.
What the Charterhouse auction at the beginning of 2026 offers
Two sets of prints by Damien Hirst, from the Empresses series of 2022, will be among the highlight lots of the first Charterhouse auction of 2026. The works, just arrived from HENI, will be offered complete with certificates of authenticity and original packaging, a relevant element for collectors and investors.
Each set from the 2022 series is estimated between 8,000 and 10,000 pounds, a range that reflects the strong demand for the British artist in the secondary market. The event will be held in Sherborne, at Charterhouse, on Friday, January 2, 2026, and will inaugurate the auction calendar of the new year.
What other significant works will be in the catalog
Alongside Hirst’s prints, the auction will include numerous works of art, books, and decorative art objects. Among the most anticipated lots is a 1988 painting by Gillian Ayres, an important representative of British abstraction. The work is a large abstract composition, entered into the same Somerset collection 37 years ago, purchased directly from the artist.
The estimate for Ayres’ painting is between 13,000 and 16,000 pounds, in line with market valuations for works from this period. The artist passed away in 2018 at the age of 88, and the growing attention towards her work contributes to the interest in this lot compared to other contemporary proposals.
How the market presents itself according to Charterhouse
Commenting on the sale, Richard Bromell emphasized how the event seems like an “excellent way to start 2026.” According to Bromell, the art market continues to show solidity, with collectors still eager to purchase works by important modern and contemporary artists. This favorable context supports the expectations of winning bids for the main lots.
The joint presence of names like Damien Hirst and Gillian Ayres indicates a focus on established artists, capable of attracting both local and international buyers. In this context, the combination of recent prints and historical paintings offers an interesting comparison between languages and price ranges within the same sale.
How to participate in the auction and view the works
Interested parties can view the lots at the Long Street Salerooms in Sherborne starting from Monday, December 29, where Hirst’s prints, Ayres’ painting, and other works in the catalog will be displayed. The preview allows for personal verification of the condition, dimensions, and quality of the proposed works.
Alternatively, potential buyers can participate through online bids, thanks to the live bidding service available on the auction house’s website. For detailed information on the catalog, participation methods, and sales conditions, it is possible to consult the Charterhouse Auctioneers portal.
What are the contacts for appraisals and further information?
Those wishing to obtain an appraisal of their works or delve into certain lots can contact Charterhouse directly. The auction house provides an appraisal service, useful for those considering placing modern and contemporary art works on the market.
For appraisal requests, auction information, or assistance in registering for bids, it is possible to call Charterhouse.
Further details on artists and market trends can also be compared, internationally, with analyses published by outlets such as Artnet News Market and the periodic reports of Artprice, to contextualize estimates and sales expectations in the global landscape.
As expert in digital marketing, Amelia began working in the fintech sector in 2014 after writing her thesis on Bitcoin technology. Previously author for several international crypto-related magazines and CMO at Eidoo. She is now the co-founder and editor-in-chief of The Cryptonomist and Econique.
She is also a marketing teacher at Digital Coach in Milan and she published a book about NFTs for the Italian publishing house Mondadori, while she is also helping artists and company to entering in the sector. As advisor, Amelia is also involved in metaverse-related project such as The Nemesis and OVER.
