India Unveils 200 Masterpieces Highlighting Its Colonial Legacy

Founded in 1600, the English East India Company evolved from a trading enterprise into a formidable colonial power in India. By the late 18th century, as the company solidified its control, it began commissioning Indian artists—many of whom had previously worked for the Mughals—to create vivid visual records of the land. An ongoing exhibition titled “A Treasury of Life: Indian Company Paintings, c. 1790 to 1835,” hosted by the Delhi Art Gallery (DAG), showcases over 200 of these artworks, shedding light on their historical significance and the artistic talents of Indian creators.

Exploring the Exhibition

The exhibition at DAG is the largest of its kind in India, featuring a diverse collection of company paintings that have often been overlooked in mainstream art history. These artworks, primarily created by unnamed artists, encompass a variety of subjects, categorized mainly into three themes: natural history, architecture, and Indian customs and manners. According to Giles Tillotson, the curator of the show, these themes reflect the European fascination with the unfamiliar aspects of Indian life. The paintings serve as a bridge between the two cultures, allowing European patrons to engage with the flora, fauna, and architectural marvels of India, while also observing the intricate social practices of its people.

Architectural Wonders Captured

The architectural heritage of India captivated European visitors, who sought to document their travels through paintings long before the advent of photography. Iconic Mughal monuments became popular subjects, with artists commissioned to depict structures such as the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Jama Masjid. One notable artist, Sita Ram, traveled extensively with the Marquess of Hastings, the Governor-General of India from 1813 to 1823, capturing the essence of these monumental sites. His works, including a painting of Sheikh Salim Chishti’s tomb, highlight the collaboration between European patrons and Indian artists, showcasing the unique blend of artistic styles that emerged during this period.

Botanical Studies and Cultural Rituals

Among the most significant collections in the exhibition are botanical watercolors, likely originating from Murshidabad in West Bengal. These paintings, part of the Louisa Parlby Album, date back to the late 18th century and illustrate the diverse plant life of the region. The artworks reflect the local flora that contributed to the everyday lives of the people, even as European patrons viewed them as exotic specimens. Additionally, the exhibition features a painting depicting a temple procession in southern India, capturing a moment from a 200-year-old tradition. This artwork highlights the rich cultural rituals that were documented through the lens of Indian artists, providing a glimpse into the vibrant social fabric of the time.

The Legacy of Company Paintings

Company paintings represent a significant chapter in the history of Indian art, showcasing the collaboration between European patrons and Indian artists. Art historian Mildred Archer described these works as a “fascinating record of Indian social life,” blending the intricate details of Mughal miniatures with European realism. The exhibition also emphasizes the role of regional styles, such as those from Tanjore, which depicted various professions and castes, catering to British curiosity about Indian life. As Ashish Anand, CEO of DAG, notes, these paintings mark the beginning of Indian modernism, as artists transitioned from traditional courtly settings to new patrons driven by scientific inquiry and observation. This shift laid the groundwork for the evolution of Indian art in the modern era.

Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.

Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn