Une fête à Genazzano

1859

Gold medal at the Paris Salon

He is awarded a gold medal at the Paris Salon.

after 1860

Turn to the mature style: texture and light

After 1860 his technique changes: the painting becomes more tactile, the paint more textured, the brushstroke less dependent on the subject, and detailed figures sometimes disappear; the influence of Gustave Courbet may have played a part. His favourite subjects remain Italian landscapes and peasant scenes, idealised by his lighting.

1862–1872

Employed by: Kunstakademie Düsseldorf

1863

Knight of the Legion of Honour

Napoleon III makes him a Knight of the Legion of Honour; from 1863 to 1868 his paintings are shown at the Paris Salon, and until the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–1871 he remains in close touch with the Paris art scene.

1863

From opponent to professor at the academy

In March 1863 he becomes professor of landscape painting at the Düsseldorf Academy, succeeding Hans Gude; the post brings social elevation and financial security, though it seems at odds with his earlier opposition. With Schadow gone from the directorship since 1859 the conflicts have eased, and the appointment is a conscious political move to reconcile the academy with independent artists.

1871

Nine months in Italy with his family

With his family he spends almost nine months in Italy — Castellammare di Stabia, Amalfi, Capri and Ischia, and several weeks in Sorrento; Theodor Hagen and Albert Flamm take his place at the academy.