Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Box “Winter Troika at Night”. Palekh, USSR, 1980. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 20 by 12 cm Condition report: Loss of lid fitting, wear to lacquer, signs of use. Provenance: From the family collection of the Golikov dynasty. Created and preserved by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. Created in 1980, this work belongs to the mature period of Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. The traditional troika subject is presented here in a rare nocturnal interpretation, giving the composition a distinctive atmospheric quality. Against a deep dark ground, a troika of horses rendered in cinnabar and gold tones moves across a snowy landscape. The palette is built on the contrast between cool blues and greens of the winter setting and the warm highlights of the figures. A golden moon disc structures the composition and enhances its spatial depth. Fine detailing is executed using raised gold and the characteristic Palekh technique of delicate linear work. Collecting & Investment Potential: Works by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov are held in major museum collections and represent key examples of the Palekh school. Unusual interpretations of canonical subjects are particularly valued by collectors. A refined variation on a classic subject, distinguished by its rare nocturnal palette. Such works are selectively acquired and seldom reappear on the market.