“Peaceable Kingdom” is a masterpiece by the artist Edward Hicks, created in 1840. This work is associated with the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement and belongs to the genre of religious painting. It is part of a series also titled “Peaceable Kingdom”.
The artwork portrays a serene and harmonious scene where various animals, typically natural enemies, coexist peacefully. Dominated by warm tones and vivid hues, the composition includes a lion, an ox, a leopard, and lambs, among others, all positioned closely together without any indication of conflict. Amidst the fauna, children and cherubs contribute to the scene’s idyllic and tranquil atmosphere. In the background, a group of Native Americans and settlers appear to be engaged in amiable interactions, symbolizing unity and the possibility of harmonious existence among diverse groups. The painting is rich in symbolism and reflects Hicks’ Quaker beliefs, emphasizing themes of peace, innocence, and reconciliation.
