He studied at the progressive Copenhagen Academy between 1805 and 1808, where he adapted the visual clarity of the contemporary Danish school[1] and was awarded a silver medal in draughtsmanship.

[5] He was also a friend of the painter Louise Seidler, who described him as "an altogether splendid and comical fellow"[5] and often served as his model.

Goethe was impressed and recommended that the Grand Duke Charles Augustus purchase his work The Embroiderer.

[5] The characters are often viewed from the back, as in Friedrich's work, and the scenes provide hints of narrative as the figures engage privately in everyday activities.

The painting On Sentry Duty (1815) depicts three rangers, including the artist Ferdinand Hartmann and the writer Theodor Körner, who fought with Kersting and died in wars against the French.