The artwork titled “The Declaration of Independence,” created by Edward Hicks in 1845, belongs to the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. It is a history painting that depicts the momentous event of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The artist, Edward Hicks, presents this significant historical scene with a distinctive, unrefined style typical of the Naïve Art genre.
In the artwork, a large assembly of distinguished men is depicted within a grand, solemn room, all dressed in period attire. The men are gathered around a grand table, upon which rests the Declaration of Independence. A group of prominent figures stands in the center, with one individual appearing to present the document. The background showcases tall, red curtains and large wooden doors, which frame the contemplative and earnest expressions of the attendees. The ceiling, adorned with architectural details, adds to the gravity and formality of the occasion. Hicks’ use of bold, clear lines and a rich, yet simple color palette emphasizes the historical importance and dignified atmosphere of this seminal moment in American history.
