His father, Gottlieb (1804-1874), was a music teacher and organist at St. Nicholas' Church.

His mother, Agathe (1808-1895), was an amateur artist and the aunt of Peter Carl Fabergé.

[3] Upon graduating, he was awarded a stipend that enabled him to continue his studies in Rome, where he remained for six years.

Two years later, he was recognized as an Artist of Historical Painting on the strength of his depiction of two angels proclaiming the death of Sodom.

In addition to his canvases, he created several decorative murals and icons at the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.