Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Decorative Panel (Plate) “Ruslan at the Castle of Chernomor”. Palekh, USSR, 1989. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. Diameter 24 cm. Condition report: Minor signs of wear. Provenance: From the personal working archive of the Golikov family. Created and preserved by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. A mature 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. The composition is based on Alexander Pushkin’s “Ruslan and Lyudmila”. The scene centres on the confrontation between Ruslan and Chernomor. The mounted figure defines the structure of the composition, supported by architectural and landscape elements. Figures and setting are integrated into a dynamic decorative framework. The palette combines rich greens, gold, and ochres against a dark ground. Fine detailing 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. Pushkin-related compositions are central to the artist’s oeuvre. Works from the mature period with this subject and provenance continue to attract consistent market interest. A strong Pushkin-themed composition by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov from his mature period. Works of this type remain consistently in demand among collectors.