Wu Zetian (H10-1) is a striking piece from Damien Hirst’s 2022 series The Empresses, a collection of five large-scale laminated Giclée prints on aluminum composite panels, each enhanced with layers of glittering screen-print. The series celebrates the lives and legacies of powerful female rulers, with Wu Zetian paying tribute to the only female emperor in Chinese history, known for her bold reign during the Tang Dynasty.

The artwork features Hirst’s iconic butterfly motif, with thousands of red and black butterfly wings meticulously arranged into a kaleidoscopic, symmetrical pattern. The deep red hues evoke themes of life, power, and passion, while the intricate, mirrored design reflects ideas of transformation, mortality, and eternity—recurring symbols in Hirst’s work.

Measuring 100 x 100 cm (39 3/8 x 39 3/8 inches), the piece’s shimmering surface catches and plays with light, creating a dynamic visual effect that adds depth and intensity. The print was published by HENI Editions in a limited edition of 2,853, each hand-signed and numbered by the artist on a label affixed to the reverse.

Wu Zetian (H10-1) exemplifies Hirst’s ability to merge historical and cultural narratives with contemporary art practices, turning the image of an ancient empress into a mesmerizing exploration of beauty, power, and impermanence. Today, the artwork stands as a sought-after collectible, bridging the opulence of the past with the innovation of the present.