Examine the European impact on Mughal paintings.

Early Encounters: The Portuguese Influence (Early 16th - Early 17th Century)

The earliest European influence came with the arrival of the Portuguese. Initially, this was limited to the introduction of paper and a few European motifs. Portuguese missionaries presented Mughal emperors with European paintings, primarily religious depictions. These were often copied by Mughal artists, but the interpretations remained distinctly Mughal in style. The focus was on novelty rather than a complete stylistic shift. Akbar’s court was particularly receptive to these new visual elements.

The Dutch and English Impact (17th Century)

The Dutch East India Company (VOC) and the English East India Company brought a more sustained and direct influence. Dutch and English artists began working in Mughal courts, particularly in Murshidabad and other regional centers. This led to:

• Introduction of Oil Painting: European oil painting techniques were adopted, allowing for greater realism and detail.
• Perspective and Shading: The use of linear perspective and chiaroscuro (light and shadow) became increasingly common, adding depth and volume to figures and landscapes.
• Realistic Portraiture: Mughal portraits began to exhibit a greater degree of realism, influenced by European portrait traditions. Emphasis shifted towards capturing individual likenesses.
• New Subjects: European subjects, such as European officials, ships, and architecture, began to appear in Mughal paintings.

Artists like Jagannath, employed by the English, exemplify this fusion. His works demonstrate a mastery of European techniques while retaining Mughal sensibilities.

The French Influence and the Rise of Company Painting (18th Century)

The 18th century witnessed a significant French influence, particularly during the reign of Muhammad Shah. French artists were employed at the Mughal court, and the demand for paintings depicting everyday life and natural history increased. This led to the development of the ‘Company Painting’ style, which was specifically created for British East India Company officials.

Characteristics of Company Painting:

• Focus on Natural History: Detailed depictions of flora and fauna became prominent.
• Realistic Depiction of Indian Life: Scenes of Indian occupations, festivals, and customs were painted with a focus on accuracy.
• Watercolour Medium: Watercolour became the preferred medium, allowing for delicate washes and precise detail.
• Patronage by British Officials: Company paintings were primarily commissioned by British officials as souvenirs and records of their experiences in India.

The British Consolidation and Decline of Traditional Mughal Style (19th Century)

With the increasing consolidation of British power, the traditional Mughal painting style gradually declined. The British established art schools that promoted European academic art, further marginalizing the Mughal tradition. However, the Company Painting style continued to flourish, serving as a bridge between the Mughal and European artistic worlds. The focus shifted from imperial grandeur to documenting the realities of colonial India.

Phase	Dominant European Power	Key Influences	Impact on Mughal Painting
Early (16th-17th Century)	Portuguese	Paper, Religious Paintings	Initial exposure, limited stylistic changes, novelty.
Mid (17th-18th Century)	Dutch & English	Oil Painting, Perspective, Realism	Increased realism, new subjects, adoption of European techniques.
Late (18th-19th Century)	French & British	Natural History, Watercolour, Company Patronage	Rise of Company Painting, decline of traditional Mughal style, focus on documentation.