Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Double-Sided Cigarette Case “Hunting” and “Meeting”. Palekh, USSR, 1975. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 9 by 6 cm Condition report: Signs of wear; abrasions and losses to the lacquer; darkening of the paint layer. Provenance: From the personal working archive of the Golikov family. Created and preserved by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov during his active creative period. A work by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, one of the leading masters of the Palekh school, Honoured Artist of the RSFSR, and son of Ivan Ivanovich Golikov. The cigarette case represents an example of applied art featuring painting on both sides - a format less commonly encountered in Palekh production. One side depicts a “Meeting” scene, with a couple in a лодка set within a calm, stylised landscape. The reverse presents a “Hunting” scene, structured through movement and interaction of figures. The contrast between the two compositions highlights differing moods and rhythms. Additional decorative elements, including fantastical figures, are executed using traditional Palekh techniques. Fine detailing is achieved through multi-layered tempera painting with the use of raised gold. 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. Cigarette cases with original painting are less common than standard Palekh forms. Double-sided compositions represent a more complex artistic approach and are of particular interest to collectors. A distinctive Palekh object by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, combining two contrasting compositions within a single work. Such pieces are rarely available and are typically acquired at the point of first availability.