Edward Hicks, Folk Artist, 1780—1849
Image: one of the 60 variations of Hicks' Peaceable Kingdom series.
Image: one of the 60 variations of Hicks' Peaceable Kingdom series.
Edward Hicks was an American folk painter and a distinguished minister within the Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as Quakers. Here are some key points about his life and work:
Born in Attleboro (now Langhorne, Pennsylvania), Hicks was orphaned early in life and raised by a Quaker family. He apprenticed as an ornamental painter for coach makers, which provided the foundation for his later artistic endeavors. Despite his initial interest in painting, his religious calling eventually dominated, leading him to become a Quaker minister in 1811.
>Hicks moved to Newtown in 1811 after marrying Sarah Worstall from Newtown. He established his ornamental painting business in the town, buying property on Court Street near the Half Moon Inn (also known as Tucker's Tavern or the Court Inn).
Hicks is best known for his series of paintings titled "The Peaceable Kingdom," of which he created over 60 versions. These works depict animals from Isaiah 11:6-9 living harmoniously together, symbolizing peace and the Quaker ideal of non-violence. Many of his paintings also include scenes from Pennsylvania history, notably William Penn's treaty with Native Americans, reflecting his admiration for Penn and his peaceful negotiations.
His art was deeply intertwined with his religious beliefs. The Quaker schism of 1827, which led to the formation of the Hicksite and Orthodox Friends, influenced his work as he aligned with the Hicksite sect, named after his cousin Elias Hicks. This schism is reflected in some of his paintings through symbolic elements.
After a brief attempt at farming, Hicks returned to painting to support his family financially, although he viewed art as secondary to his ministerial duties. His later works are considered his finest, showcasing not only his religious convictions but also his artistic talent, particularly in landscapes and historical scenes.
Hicks's work was not widely recognized during his lifetime but gained significant appreciation in the 20th century, especially after exhibitions like the one organized by Holger Cahill at the Museum of Modern Art in 1932. Today, he is celebrated as one of America's most beloved folk artists, with his paintings fetching high prices at auctions.
His art provides insight into both his personal faith and a broader Quaker ethos of peace, simplicity, and community, He is one of the most unique figure in American art history.
