Exploring Indian Art’s Evolution: Insights from Buffett First Friday Lunch

Join the Roberta Buffett Institute for its monthly faculty research lunchtime talk series, held on the first Friday of each month. These events feature a half-hour presentation by a faculty member, aimed at a broad, multidisciplinary audience of Northwestern University students, faculty, and staff. A conversational Q&A session follows each talk, with lunch provided starting at 12:15 p.m.

This May, the First Friday Lunch will present Yuthika Sharma, Assistant Professor of Art History at Northwestern University’s Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences. Professor Sharma will discuss the transformation of Indian painting during the decline of the Mughal Empire (1707–1857), as it came under the influence of the British East India Company.

Focusing on Delhi, the historical center of both the Mughal and British Indian empires, her talk will explore how artists shifted from traditional courtly themes to urban subjects. This period, marked by the emergence of print, photography, and rising nationalist ideas, played a vital role in redefining Mughal and Company painting with a more intellectual and modern approach.

Please note that 720 University Place is not ADA accessible. The University is committed to improving physical access across campus, but some venues have not yet been upgraded.

Indian painting, Mughal Empire, British East India Company, Yuthika Sharma, Company painting