Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Study “Christ Enthroned”. Palekh, USSR / Russia, 1980s-1990s. Tempera and gold on paper laid on wood. 56 by 46 cm Executed as an easel panel. Condition report: Stains and traces of moisture; deformation of paper; adhesive traces along edges; cracks to the wooden support. Provenance: From the family collection of the Golikov dynasty. Preserved in the archive of Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov as an authorial study related to a sacred composition. A rare preparatory work connected to the iconographic subject of Christ enthroned. The composition follows a canonical structure: the central figure of Christ seated on a throne with an open Gospel, surrounded by symbolic representations of the Evangelists. The spatial arrangement is symmetrical and hierarchically organized. The work reveals the process of image construction: underlying lines, distribution of forms, and rhythmic structure of drapery are clearly visible. Facial features and gestures are rendered with precision and restraint. The color palette is based on traditional combinations of ochre, red, and blue, with gold accents emphasizing key elements and defining the light structure. The sketch-like quality allows insight into the artist’s working method, while the piece retains its own visual coherence and completeness. Collecting & Investment Potential: Preparatory works by Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov are extremely rare, particularly those related to sacred subjects. Such works are valuable both as documentation of artistic process and as evidence of the artist’s engagement with iconographic tradition. A rare study combining documentary importance with independent artistic value.