Andreas Achenbach

Style: Romanticism;

Place: Kassel

Born: 1815

Death: 1910

Biography:

Andreas Achenbach

, a renowned German landscape painter, left an indelible mark on the art world with his captivating works. Born in Kassel, Germany, on September 29, 1815, Achenbach's artistic journey began at the Düsseldorf Academy of Painting under the guidance of Friedrich Wilhelm Schadow in 1827.

Early Influences and Travels

Achenbach's early work was characterized by the pseudo-idealism of the German romantic school. However, after moving to Munich in 1835, he came under the influence of Louis Gurlitt, which led him to found the German realistic school. This shift in style is evident in his numerous travels throughout Italy, Holland, and Scandinavia.

Notable Works and Achievements

Some of Achenbach's most notable works include:

Clearing Up—Coast of Sicily (1847), which showcases his mastery of light and atmosphere, now housed at The Walters Art Museum.
Wildbach, a testament to his ability to capture the power of nature.
Storm on the sea at the Norwegian coast (1837), which can be found at the Städel Museum.
Retrieving the stern boat (1842), a work that highlights his attention to detail and composition.

Key Achievements:

- Received a medal of the first class in Paris in 1855 - Named a Chevalier of the French Legion of Honor

Museums Featuring Achenbach's Work

Achenbach's paintings can be found in various museums, including:

Berlin National Gallery
New Pinakothek in Munich
Dresden, Darmstadt, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Leipzig, and Hamburg
Several galleries in the United States

Legacy

Achenbach passed away on April 1, 1910, in Düsseldorf. His brother, Oswald Achenbach (1827–1905), was also a painter. Today, Achenbach is regarded as the father of 19th-century German landscape painting.