The Peaceable Kingdom
c. 1846-1847
Edward Hicks, a Quaker minister, painted this charming scene of predators and prey hanging out like best friends. In the foreground, a lion, leopard, and massive ox stand peacefully alongside a tiny lamb and a playful child, illustrating the biblical prophecy of a world without violence. If you look closely at the background, you'll spot William Penn making a treaty with Native Americans, a clever nod to Hicks' own hopes for harmony in the real world. He actually painted over 60 versions of this exact scene throughout his life!
Views: 4