Peaceable Kingdom 1848

Edward Hicks, a Quaker minister and painter, created "Peaceable Kingdom." Hicks repeatedly depicted this theme, drawing inspiration from the biblical verse Isaiah 11:6-9, envisioning a world where animals and humans coexist harmoniously. As a Quaker, Hicks was deeply concerned with social justice, equality, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The painting reflects his spiritual beliefs and his desire for a more harmonious world. In the background, we see William Penn's treaty with the Lenape Indians, which underscores the themes of peace, fairness, and reconciliation. However, it also serves as a stark reminder of the complicated history of colonialism and the displacement of indigenous peoples. The presence of wild animals alongside domesticated ones presents an idealized view of harmony, which, viewed through the lens of history, feels both deeply hopeful and painfully naive. The appeal for unity asks us to reflect on our own relationship with nature, each other, and the difficult work of building a truly peaceful kingdom.