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a picture of a painting of a boat in the water
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49 - 49. * Ivan Chuikov (Russian, 1935–2020)
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Estimate €3,000 - €5,000
Sale commission
Description
49. * Ivan Chuikov (Russian, 1935–2020) Moscow signed in Cyrillic (bottom left) oil-based coloured pencils and collage on paper 36.3 x 48 cm (14 5/16 x 18 7/8 in). Provenance Acquired directly from the artist in Moscow Collection of Eric Peschler, Switzerland Thence by descent to the present owner One of the most subtle and romantic artists of the Moscow School of Conceptualism, Ivan Chuikov approached the creative process as a form of research. The themes that interested Chuikov ranged from purely painterly issues to the conflict between the real and the illusory; however, unlike other non-conformists, he steered clear of ‘Soviet’ and ‘political’ themes. By experimenting with various techniques, the artist sought to understand the very nature of the painting itself – in particular, the possibility of transcending the confines of the canvas, visual perception and optical effects. This is precisely why form was more important to him than content. By using optical illusions, collages and a mix of various techniques, Chuikov ensures that the surface of the painting and its tactile quality take centre stage. In this way, a pictorial synergy is created between objective reality and painting. It is precisely the pictorial quality and decorative nature of Chuikov’s works, as well as his focus on purely artistic objectives, that sets him apart from the leading exponents of conceptual art. Moscow is part of a series of works in which the artist effectively experiments with various techniques. Using postcards depicting city landmarks, Chuikov juxtaposes mass-produced imagery with his own painting, complementing the compositions with his own images. Using a vibrant palette dominated by shades of blue and skilfully combining the muted colours of the postcards with depictions of pastel-coloured roses, the artist creates a light, romantic mood. The blue sky, drawn by Chuikov using coloured pencils, forms a continuation of the postcard; in this way, the artist brings two media together; as a conceptual artist, he uses mass-produced objects in combination with a unique, hand-drawn illustration. This contrast ultimately leads to a harmonious symbiosis, creating an illusion of perception in the service of a painterly experiment.
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About the sale The Eric A. Peschler Collection: Non-Conformist Art of the Soviet Era
Auction location
Auction time 10/05/2026 at 12:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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