Washington at the Delaware 1840

Edward Hicks’s “Washington at the Delaware” (1840) depicts a pivotal moment in American history, the crossing of the Delaware River by General George Washington and his troops during the Revolutionary War. Hicks, a self-taught artist and Quaker preacher, painted numerous versions of this scene, emphasizing the religious and patriotic themes of the event. The image, rendered in a naive style, portrays Washington confidently leading his troops across the icy river, a symbol of American courage and determination in the face of adversity. The iconic scene has resonated with American audiences since its creation and is considered a testament to the enduring power of national narratives in art.