Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Decorative Panel (Lid) “Down the Volga River”. Palekh, USSR, 1978. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 8 by 7 cm Condition report: Minor signs of wear. Provenance: From the family collection of the Golikov dynasty. Created and preserved by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. A 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. Created in 1978, the composition is based on a traditional folk song theme. The scene is centred on a boat moving across the water, with figures arranged in a rhythmic grouping that defines the composition. Particular emphasis is placed on the depiction of water, with stylised waves integrated into the decorative structure. The palette combines deep green-blue, cinnabar, and gold tones 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. Compositions based on folk themes with developed landscape elements maintain steady collector interest. A dynamic composition by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov combining figure and landscape. Such works remain consistently attractive to collectors.