Hicks, Edward (1780-1849)

US folk artist. His favourite subject was The Peaceable Kingdom (based on the Old Testament Book of Isaiah), showing wild and tame animals living peacefully together in paradise. He is said to have produced more than 100 versions of this subject.

Hicks was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. He was a travelling Quaker preacher who earned his living as a sign and carriage painter. Many of his paintings were inn signs with such historical themes as Washington on Horseback, The Declaration of Independence, and William Penn's Treaty with the Indians, the last scene constantly appearing in the background of versions of The Peaceable Kingdom.