The Ten Largest No. 9, Old Age | Hilma af Klint | 1907

"The Ten Largest" is a series of ten paintings by Hilma af Klint, created in 1907, that delves into the stages of human life, from childhood to old age. These monumental works stand out for their size, vibrant colors, and abstract designs, which were groundbreaking for the early 20th century. Af Klint's work predates the abstract movements recognized in the history of Western art, making her a pioneering figure in abstract art. Each painting in "The Ten Largest" is characterized by a unique blend of organic forms, swirling patterns, and symbolic motifs that reflect af Klint's spiritual and philosophical inquiries into the nature of existence and the human experience. The series was part of a larger body of work intended for a spiritual temple, illustrating af Klint's belief in the connection between the spiritual and material worlds and her ambition to express these complex ideas through her art. "The Ten Largest" not only highlights af Klint's innovative approach to color and form but also her contribution to the evolution of abstract art, challenging traditional notions of representation and aesthetics.