Lot description
Michel Kikoine - Floral Still Life. Oil on canvas floral still life by Michel Kikoine, depicting a loosely arranged bouquet rendered in warm reds, yellows, ochres, and greens against a light, textured ground. The composition is animated by expressive, confident brushwork and a softly modulated palette, hallmarks of Kikoine's mature painterly language.The flowers are treated with an emphasis on mass, rhythm, and color harmony rather than botanical precision, reflecting the artist's post-impressionist sensibility and his interest in structure beneath surface spontaneity. The background is worked with visible texture and layered strokes, allowing the bouquet to emerge organically from the surrounding space.The painting is signed at the lower left, consistent in placement and character with known signed works by Kikoine. Stylistically, the work aligns closely with his still lifes and floral compositions produced in France during the mid-20th century, particularly those associated with the École de Paris circle, in which Kikoine was an active participant.The canvas is presented in a substantial period wooden frame with a gilt inner liner, likely original or added shortly after execution. The reverse retains an old cardboard backing secured with nails and hanging string, indicative of early to mid-20th century framing practices. The backing shows age-appropriate wear, including cracking and losses, but remains intact.Condition reflects natural aging consistent with an older oil on canvas, including surface craquelure, minor abrasions, and softened edges. Estimated Value $600 - 800