Hand signed & numbered by the artist on label on verso. Comes with original box. Damien Hirst series "Empresses" is an homage to 5 amazing women with a major relevance in history. Empress Suiko was the first woman to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne from 593 to 628. In Japan history only 8 women have ruled. Some of her achievements include recognition of the Buddhist religion in Japan & was actually one of the 1st Buddhist monarchs, the opening of relations with the court in 600, adoption of the Twelve Level Cap & Rank System in 603, and the adoption of the Seventeen-article constitution in 604. This work has a clear circle like shape. The butterflies are concentrical to a single one in the center. The circle has a special relevance when speaking of Buddhism and Japan. It has many interpretations & is a symbol that defines Japanese aesthetics & culture. Some terms such as illumination, elegance, universe or emptiness are directly related to the circle