Benjamin Hudson’s journey in India began with his arrival in Calcutta in the mid 1850s, a time when academic realism had fallen out of fashion in the West

His sojourn in India proved transformative, as he garnered prestigious commissions from Indian elites, including royals and East India Company traders Hudson’s decision to remain in the region until 1862 was pivotal, allowing him to defy artistic norms prevalent among his European counterparts While contemporaries embraced impressionism and chiaroscuro, Hudson championed academic realism, a departure deemed audacious during its waning popularity in the West Yet, this divergence fuelled his acclaim in India, where he emerged as a beacon for local artists transitioning towards Western academic realism

Hudson’s oeuvre in India reflected his penchant for miniature-esque paintings and demonstrated remarkable technical proficiency His portraits, notably of Burdwan court members and the Nawab of Murshidabad, not only captured the essence of his subjects but also bridged cultural divides, inspiring indigenous artists Through his artistry, Hudson left an indelible legacy, reshaping perceptions of traditionalism and innovation in the tapestry of Indian art