Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Box “Deer Hunt”. Palekh, USSR, 1972. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 4.5 by 6 cm; oval box. Condition report: Minor signs of wear; abrasions to the lacquer along the edges. Provenance: From the Golikov family collection (Palekh). Created and preserved within the artist’s personal archive. A dynamic work by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, one of the leading masters of the Palekh school, Honoured Artist of the RSFSR, and a representative of a distinguished artistic dynasty, son of Ivan Ivanovich Golikov. The piece belongs to the artist’s mature period and exemplifies his distinctive approach to movement and composition. The subject, “Deer Hunt, ” unfolds as a chase scene structured through rhythm and interaction of figures. Set against a black lacquer ground, riders pursue a deer in a composition marked by complex spatial arrangement and flowing linear design. The interplay of red, gold, and dark tones enhances the sense of motion and dramatic tension. The fine detailing - from the figures to the landscape elements - is executed using raised gold and the traditional multi-layered tempera technique. Collecting & Investment Potential: Works by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov are held in major museum collections and form part of the established canon of Palekh miniature painting. Works with direct family provenance are rarely encountered on the market. Compositions featuring dynamic multi-figure scenes are particularly valued within the artist’s oeuvre. A dynamic Palekh miniature by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, reflecting the artist’s mature style and compositional complexity. Such works are seldom available and are typically acquired at the point of first availability.