“A Peaceable Kingdom,” created by Edward Hicks in 1832, is an exemplary piece of Naïve Art, also known as Primitivism. This particular artwork falls within the genre of religious painting and is part of Hicks’ notable “Peaceable Kingdom” series.
The artwork features a serene landscape where various animals, typically seen as predatory or wild, coexist harmoniously with humans. At the center, a selection of large animals, including a lion, an ox, and a leopard, sit calmly in close proximity to smaller, more vulnerable creatures like lambs and children, emphasizing the theme of peaceful coexistence. On the left side of the artwork, a group of people, dressed in colonial attire, seems engaged in negotiation or mutual understanding with Native Americans, symbolizing peace and unity among different human groups. Trees and a river in the background add depth to the scene, while a majestic sky completes the tranquil atmosphere. This juxtaposition of wildlife and human groups illustrates the artist’s vision of a harmonious world where all beings live together peacefully.
