The artwork titled “Grave of William Penn at Jordans in England,” created by Edward Hicks in 1847, is a fine example of the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. This landscape painting emanates an unpretentious and straightforward aesthetic, characteristic of the genre.
The scene depicted in the artwork is a bucolic and tranquil setting, likely at Jordans in England, where William Penn’s grave is purported to be. In the foreground, there is an assortment of farm animals including cows and sheep, which are being tended by a farmer. The presence of lush greenery, prominent trees, and an expansive field under a slightly overcast sky creates a serene and pastoral atmosphere. A modest dwelling is situated midway up the canvas, surrounded by gathering people, which could be indicative of a communal or somber event. The palette is rich in earthy tones, enhancing the rural charm and depicting a peaceful day in the English countryside. The composition captures both the tranquility of the natural landscape and the simplicity of rural life.
