Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Miniature Box “Parable”. Palekh, Russia, 1993. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 7 by 6 cm Condition report: Signs of wear; losses to the lacquer; interior with noticeable wear and soiling. 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 1993, this composition belongs to the artist’s late period and is based on an uncommon subject within the Palekh tradition. The scene is structured as a procession of figures, arranged to create a rhythmic movement across the surface. Landscape and symbolic elements are integrated into a unified composition. The palette contrasts a dark ground with rich green, ochre, and gold tones. 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. Late works with non-standard subject matter are less common and appeal to collectors focused on individual artistic expression. A late-period work by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov featuring an uncommon subject. Such pieces are infrequently encountered and attract discerning collectors.