Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Box “Into Space with Flowers”. Palekh, USSR, 1991. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 28 by 22 cm Condition report: Signs of wear; abrasions to the lacquer. Provenance: From the personal working archive of the Golikov family. Created and preserved by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. A late work by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, one of the leading masters of the Palekh school, People’s Artist of the RSFSR, and son of Ivan Ivanovich Golikov. Dated 1991, this composition departs from traditional Palekh subject matter and presents a multi-figure scene with imaginative and symbolic elements. Set against a dark ground, the composition combines figurative, architectural, and abstract motifs within a layered pictorial space. The central imagery is integrated into a dynamic structure balancing decorative tradition with individual interpretation. The palette relies on strong contrasts between the dark background and насыщенные tones, with extensive use of raised gold. Fine detailing is executed using 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. Non-traditional and conceptually driven compositions are significantly less common. Late works reflecting the artist’s individual visual language are of particular interest to collectors. A rare non-traditional composition by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov, reflecting the artist’s late creative period. Works of this conceptual nature are seldom available and attract focused collector attention.