Kukryniksy

The Kukryniksy were a trio of Soviet caricaturists and cartoonists, renowned for their distinctive and impactful style. This collective name was derived from the surnames of its members: Mikhail Kupriyanov, Porfiry Krylov, and Nikolai Sokolov, who first met at the Moscow art school VKhUTEMAS in the early 1920s. They began their collaboration in 1924, drawing caricatures under a joint signature. The Kukryniksy gained national fame in the 1930s after they started drawing for the satirical magazine Krokodil, particularly noted for their sharp attacks on fascism's leading figures during the rise of the ideology. Their international acclaim was further cemented during the Second World War, as they created political cartoons and posters, notably through the TASS Windows project, to rally against Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, Heinrich Himmler, Joseph Goebbels, and Francisco Franco​​.

Aside from their propaganda work, the Kukryniksy were also accomplished in the realm of book illustration and painting. They illustrated literary works by notable authors such as Ilf and Petrov, Nikolay Gogol, Mikhail Saltykov-Shchedrin, Anton Chekhov, Maxim Gorky, Nikolai Leskov, and Miguel de Cervantes. Their artwork spans a variety of subjects, often reflecting historical, political, and propagandistic themes in the style of Socialist Realism. They are also recognized for their landscape and portrait paintings. For their contributions to art and culture, all three members were honored with the title of People's Artist of the USSR in 1958, among other accolades. Their works are held in significant collections, including over a thousand pieces in the collection of Alexandre Garese​​.

During their illustrious career, the Kukryniksy were not only a part of the artistic fabric of Soviet society but also played a critical role in the cultural and political discourse through their art. Their ability to meld sharp wit with artistic skill in the service of political propaganda and satire made their work an important tool of the Soviet Union during times of war and peace. The Kukryniksy's legacy is a testament to the power of art in shaping public opinion and national identity​​.

For collectors and experts in art and antiques, the Kukryniksy's body of work represents a fascinating intersection of artistic excellence and historical significance. To stay updated on sales and auction events related to the Kukryniksy, sign up for our updates. This subscription ensures you're always informed about opportunities to acquire pieces by these influential artists.