Peaceable Kingdom by Edward Hicks

Oil on canvas, 1832-1834

Edward Hicks created approximately 60 versions in 30 years of his now famous Peaceable Kingdom painting. The theme of this painting, drawn from chapter 11 of Isaiah, served as attractive to Hicks and fellow Quakers not only for its appealing imagery but also for its message of peace: "The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the young lion and fatling together; and a little child shall lead them." Into this version, and a number of others, Hicks incorporated the scene of William Penn’s treaty with the Indians, intending Penn's flock to represent a partial fulfillment of the biblical prophecy.

About the Artist

Though born into a life of luxury, Edward Hicks' mother passed away while he was still an infant, leaving him to be raised by a family friend who instilled in him Quaker beliefs. As a young man, he began work as a coach painter, a job which allowed him to support his family, and served as a Quaker minister throughout Philadelphia until expenses demanded an increase in pay. He chose to expand his trade to household objects and signs, a decision which upset his Quaker community who valued plain customs. Taking leave of his preaching position and temporarily of his painting endeavors, Edward tried his hand at farming. Unsuccessful at this, but finding his artwork in increased demand, he surrendered to this career pursuit full time, eventually becoming the man now often referred to as the greatest and most influential folk artist.