Mukul Dey is known as the pioneer of printmaking in India for introducing the knowledge of graphics, particularly of dry point and etching acquired from his study in England and his extensive tours to America, Europe and Japan. His works assimilate the best of western technical skills and Indian thought as reflected in his paintings and graphic prints.

With his exquisite drawing skills, Mukul Dey started painting portraits early in his career and continued it all through life. The artist is also known for popularising the concept of printmaking in India and produced several reproductions of the portraits of famous personalities he had made.