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Peaceable Kingdom by Hicks, Edward

Hicks, Edward · c. 1834

Edward Hicks, a Quaker preacher and painter, created over sixty versions of his "Peaceable Kingdom" around 1834, each a visual sermon expressing his profound hope for universal peace. This particular painting, now housed in a private collection, beautifully illustrates his vision inspired by the Book of Isaiah.

Look closely at how Hicks brings together wild and domestic animals, such as the lion and bull, or the leopard and bear, in perfect harmony. A serene child in the foreground symbolizes the innocence and spiritual guidance central to his message. The calm demeanor of all creatures, even typically predatory ones, underscores the ideal state of natural and spiritual peace.

Hicks infused his art with his spiritual convictions, depicting the biblical prophecy of a world free from conflict. The background scene, showing William Penn's historical meeting with the Lenape people, anchors this allegorical vision to a real-world example of peaceful coexistence. For Hicks, painting was a way to express his fervent beliefs in non-violence and reconciliation.

This painting isn't just a work of art, but a reflection of a deeply held spiritual yearning for a more harmonious society. What details make this vision of peace feel most compelling to you?

Details

He imagined a world where predators and prey lived in peace.
He imagined a world where predators and prey lived in peace.
A child here symbolizes innocence and divine guidance.
A child here symbolizes innocence and divine guidance.
Even a leopard is calm, resting with the child.
Even a leopard is calm, resting with the child.
The biblical prophecy of peace was his lifelong hope.
The biblical prophecy of peace was his lifelong hope.
In the background, William Penn makes a peaceful treaty.
In the background, William Penn makes a peaceful treaty.
Transcript

This Quaker preacher painted over 60 versions of this vision. He imagined a world where predators and prey lived in peace. A child here symbolizes innocence and divine guidance. Even a leopard is calm, resting with the child. The biblical prophecy of peace was his lifelong hope. In the background, William Penn makes a peaceful treaty. This was his sermon on canvas, for a harmonious world.