The Ten Largest, No. 10, Old Age (1907)
Created in 1907, The Ten Largest, No. 10, Old Age is one of the monumental paintings in Hilma af Klint's celebrated series 'The Ten Largest.' Each of these vibrant works explores different stages of human life through abstract forms. Af Klint specifically uses color, grid patterns, and spiritual symbols to articulate her perspective on old age, marking a significant transition in her artistic expression. This painting intertwines influences from her spiritualist beliefs and theosophical teachings, culminating in a profound visual statement about life’s final chapter.
1907
About the Artwork
Hilma af Klint, a pioneering force in abstract art, created The Ten Largest, No. 10, Old Age during a time when women artists were largely overlooked. As a dedicated spiritualist, she sought to channel the messages from the spirit world into her work. In 'The Ten Largest,' she divided human life into stages, using abstract symbols to convey complex ideas about existence. This specific painting captures the essence of old age through a grid structure with vibrant colors and motifs that reflect her philosophical insights. Despite af Klint's deliberate intention to delay public appreciation of her work until decades after her death, her contributions have been increasingly recognized in recent years, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in modern art history.
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Did You Know
Hilma af Klint was deeply influenced by spiritualism and theosophy. Her artistic process was often guided by visions and messages from the spirit world, which she documented meticulously, thus intertwining her art with her mystical beliefs.
Despite her innovative contributions to abstract art, af Klint’s work did not receive significant recognition until the 21st century. Her decision to only exhibit her paintings posthumously ensured that her radical approach awaited a more receptive art world.
The Ten Largest, No. 10, Old Age measures an impressive 320 x 237 cm (approximately 10.5 x 7.8 feet), making it one of the largest works in af Klint’s series. Its grand scale emphasizes her ambitions for the piece as a representation of a vital life stage.
