Bidspirit auction | Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011)

Nikolai Ivanovich Golikov (1924–2011) - Drawing “Hunt”. Palekh, USSR, 1970s. Paper, graphite pencil. Composition diameter: 22 cm. Condition report: Good condition. Minor traces of age, light paper toning, and minimal surface marks are visible. The artist’s drawing remains clearly legible. Provenance From the Golikov family collection (Palekh). Created and preserved within the artist’s personal archive. This rare circular compositional sketch by Nikolai Golikov presents a dynamic decorative hunting scene executed in a свободная graphic manner. The composition is inscribed within a circle - a traditional format associated with decorative art, mural planning, medallions, and interior panel design. Within this circular field, the artist develops a swirling movement of figures, animals, and ornamental linear motifs. The central mounted figure with flowing garments becomes the compositional axis around which unfolds a rhythm of rapidly moving animals. curling ornamental lines. cloud-like forms and stylized landscape elements. The sketch is highly significant as an example of the artist’s exploratory graphic practice from his mature period. The composition is particularly valuable for its resemblance to decorative medallions and monumental mural designs. Collecting & Investment Potential Original compositional drawings by Nikolai Golikov - especially those connected with decorative projects and circular compositions — are extremely rare. Such exploratory sheets are highly sought after by collectors of Palekh art and scholars of late twentieth-century Soviet decorative graphics. “Hunt” is a rare original compositional drawing by Nikolai Golikov, demonstrating the artist’s virtuoso freedom of line, decorative imagination, and deep connection to the traditions of Palekh ornamental composition.