1726–1801
Movements
Occupations
Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki (1726–1801) was a German painter and printmaker of Polish-Huguenot descent who became the most celebrated graphic artist in 18th-century Germany. Born in Danzig (now Gdańsk), he created approximately 2,000 etchings that serve as an invaluable visual record of German bourgeois life during the Enlightenment. Largely self-taught, Chodowiecki moved to Berlin in 1743 and achieved his first success with 'The Parting of Jean Calas from His Family' (1767). Rising through the Berlin Academy to become its director in 1797, he illustrated countless books and documented middle-class life with kindly humor rather than Hogarthian satire. His most celebrated project, 'The Journey from Berlin to Danzig' (1773), recorded his return to his birthplace after thirty years. The Chodowiecki Prize, established in his honor, recognizes scholarly contributions to Enlightenment studies.
Born October 16, 1726 in Danzig (Gdańsk), Poland, to a Polish-Huguenot family.
Father Gottfried was a tradesman; mother Henriette Ayrer was of Swiss Huguenot ancestry.
Father taught Daniel to draw as a hobby, instilling early artistic interest.
After father's death in 1740, trained as apprentice dealer in spices and food.
Continued studying drawing on own initiative with aunt's support.
At age 16, moved to Berlin to work in hardware store of uncle Antoine Adrien Ayrer.
Largely self-taught in art while working in uncle's business.
Began engraving in 1758, creating several subjects from the Seven Years' War.
Developed talent for recording life and manners of German middle class.
Admitted to Berlin Academy in 1764, marking official recognition of his artistic abilities.
Achieved popular success with sentimental painting 'The Parting of Jean Calas from His Family' (1767), showing influence of Greuze.
Produced 'History of the Life of Jesus Christ' series of etchings.
Created celebrated 'Journey from Berlin to Danzig' (1773) documenting return to birthplace after 30 years.
Illustrated works for major Enlightenment figures including Basedow, Buffon, Lavater, and Pestalozzi.
Became vice-director of Berlin Academy under Bernhard Rode in 1788.
Appointed director of the Academy of Arts in Berlin in 1797.
Continued prolific output of approximately 2,000 etchings total.
Book illustrations embraced almost all great classics of German literature.
Died February 7, 1801 in Berlin.
Buried at Französischer Friedhof (French Cemetery) in Berlin.
Artheon Research Team
Last updated: 2025-11-28
Biography length: ~800 words
Wikidata/Wikimedia Commons
