DANS LES ABRUZZES

1860s

Critics reproach him for repeating subjects

As early as the 1860s reviewers accuse him of “painting to death” certain subjects: his large, ostentatious household was expensive to run and demanded many paintings, and their number led to repetition of subjects and motifs.

1861

Honorary member of the St Petersburg Academy

He is granted honorary membership of the St Petersburg Academy.

24. Juli 1861

Son born: Benno von Achenbach

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.

March 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.