Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Monumental Panel “Winter Troika”. Palekh, USSR, 1976. Papier-mâché, egg tempera, raised gold, lacquer. 40 by 22 cm Condition report: Wear to the painted surface, minor dust accumulation. Hanging fixture on the reverse. Provenance: From the family collection of the Golikov dynasty. Created and preserved by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. A large-scale work created in 1976, during the mature period of Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov. The composition develops the traditional troika subject within a complex, stylized spatial framework. The movement of the horses structures the entire pictorial field, forming a dynamic, multi-layered composition. Set against a deep dark ground, the figures of the horses in cinnabar and gold tones appear suspended within an abstracted space, where landscape and architectural elements are integrated into a unified decorative rhythm. The work is distinguished by its intricate compositional construction: flowing harness lines, curved sleigh forms, and the inclusion of architectural motifs contribute to a continuous sense of motion. Fine detailing is executed using raised gold and the characteristic Palekh technique of delicate linear painting. Collecting & Investment Potential: Works by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov are held in major museum collections and are central to the development of the Palekh school in the second half of the 20th century. Large-scale compositions from the 1970s featuring complex reinterpretations of canonical subjects are among the most significant and scarce works by the artist. A major large-format composition from a key creative period. Works of this scale and complexity are rarely available on the market.