“Penn’s Treaty with the Indians,” created by Edward Hicks in 1845, is a notable work from the Naïve Art (Primitivism) movement. This religious painting encapsulates the historic event of William Penn’s treaty with the indigenous people, emphasizing themes of peace and diplomacy.
The artwork vividly depicts a significant moment in history where European settlers, led by William Penn, are engaged in a solemn treaty with Native American leaders. The figures are shown in a dignified stance, exchanging agreements under the expansive branches of a large tree. The Native Americans, adorned with traditional attire and headdresses, are positioned to the left, conversing and observing intently. On the right, the European settlers, dressed in period clothes, present a document, symbolizing the accord. The composition is framed by a serene landscape, with additional figures in the background, hinting at the broader societal context of the time. The foreground includes a descriptive inscription that underscores the significance of the treaty as a foundation for religious and civil liberty in America. The painting’s naive style lends it a straightforward, yet poignant, narrative quality, reflective of the cultural and historical dialogue between these two distinct communities.
