Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Decorative Panel (Lid) “The Queen of Shemakha”. Palekh, USSR, 1970s–1980s. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 4 by 6 cm; rectangular. Condition report: Signs of wear; abrasions to the lacquer; drying of the painted layer on the reverse. Provenance: From the Golikov family collection (Palekh). Created and preserved within the artist’s personal archive. A refined 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 subject is drawn from Alexander Pushkin’s “The Tale of the Golden Cockerel” and depicts the encounter between Tsar Dadon and the Queen of Shemakha (Shamakhan-tsaritsa in Russian). The composition is characterised by expressive movement and decorative richness. Set against a black ground, the queen emerges from a tent, while the figure of Dadon is shown in a deferential pose. The scene is structured through contrasting gestures and spatial relationships. The surrounding landscape is treated in a stylised manner, with ornamental vegetal forms and architectural elements creating a distinctive, fantastical environment. Fine detailing - from ornament to costume and figure - 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. Intimate compositions based on Pushkin’s tales are consistently sought after by collectors. A refined Palekh miniature by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, combining a literary subject with a distinctive decorative approach. Such works are seldom available and are typically acquired at the point of first availability.