Published Paper Details:

The aim of the paper is to examine the transition of artistic practice from miniature painting to European naturalism under the Nizams of Hyderabad from the late 18th to early 20th Century due to the emergence of photography and academic naturalism. Influenced by the colonial modernity, the Nawabs and the nobles encouraged the European style of portraiture. During this period, artists such as Raja Ravi Varma, Shripad Damodar Satwalekar, and R.W. Deuskar sought patronage in Hyderabad, competing with established court photographers like Lala Deen Dayal. Raja Ravi Varma's attempts to secure commissions from Nizam Mahbub Ali Khan highlight the shifting power dynamics in the art world, as photography gained prominence over painted portraiture. Despite professional rivalries and challenges in gaining aristocratic favor, artists like Deuskar contributed to the modernization of Hyderabad's artistic traditions, blending European naturalism with Indian themes. By the early 20th century, Hyderabad's art scene reflected a complex interplay of tradition, colonial influence, and emerging nationalist sentiments.