Penn's Treaty 1835

"Penn's Treaty" (1835) by Edward Hicks, a self-taught American folk artist, depicts the 1682 treaty between William Penn and the Lenape Native Americans. This iconic scene represents the establishment of Pennsylvania, with the treaty serving as a foundation for the colony's peaceful beginnings. The painting features a detailed depiction of the event, with both European colonists and Native Americans gathered at the signing, highlighting the complexity of early American history. Hicks' simplistic yet powerful style is evident in the flat, colorful figures and the composition, making it a testament to the artist's skill and the enduring legacy of the treaty.