Historic Hilma af Klint Painting to Hit Auction for First Time in Over 30 Years

A painting by pioneering Swedish abstract artist Hilma af Klint is set to go up for auction, marking the first sale of her work in more than three decades. The piece, "Ser III No. 5," was created on January 18, 1920 during an intensely creative period for af Klint. It belongs to one of her eight abstract series produced before she shifted toward more figurative art influenced by Rudolf Steiner.

The painting holds significant art historical value as it was featured in the landmark exhibition "The Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890–1985" held at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, which helped cement af Klint's posthumous recognition as a visionary abstract artist. Estimates place the auction price between six and eight million Swedish kronor, reflecting a substantial increase in interest and value since its last sale in the 1990s.

According to Louise Wrede, head of the art department at auction house Bukowskis, pricing such a unique and historically meaningful work was challenging given its provenance, exhibition history, and quality. The Hilma af Klint Foundation supports the sale, following internal discussions related to the management of the artist's oeuvre.

Af Klint, born in 1862, was among the first women to study at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm and began creating abstract and symbolic paintings as early as 1906. Despite her pioneering status, recognition was slow during her lifetime, with some of her works stored in less than ideal conditions, such as a drafty barn in Järna. Earlier attempts to sell her artworks, including two paintings at the Sollentuna Art Fair in 1994, met with limited interest.

This upcoming auction reflects the rising international esteem for af Klint's legacy and the renewed global attention following several exhibitions showcasing her groundbreaking contribution to abstract art. The auction is expected to draw significant buyer interest worldwide.