“Washington at the Delaware” is a history painting by Edward Hicks, created in 1849, associated with the Naïve Art movement, specifically Primitivism. This artwork captures a historical moment, presumably portraying George Washington during the famed crossing of the Delaware River, an event that occurred during the American Revolutionary War.
The painting presents a night scene illuminated by an unseen light source, highlighting the central figures against a dark wintery background. A group of soldiers manned with cannons and horses appears in the foreground. They seem to be on the verge of embarking on a significant operation, suggested by their organized and urgent demeanour. The central figure, presumably George Washington, is portrayed mounted on a pale horse, poised and commanding, accompanied by officers and a diverse array of soldiers in the background. In the middle ground, several boats filled with troops can be seen making their way across the icy river, evoking a sense of steadfast progress amidst adverse conditions. The landscape includes snow-covered banks and a sparsely-populated background, suggesting the isolation and challenge of the wartime environment. Overall, the artwork seeks to commemorate a pivotal event and valorize the leadership and bravery of those involved in the crossing.
