Penn's Treaty

Edward Hicks’s Penn’s Treaty is a notable example of Naïve art (primitivism) that reflects his deep religious faith and cultural values. As a distinguished Christian minister of the Society of Friends, Hicks often infused his work with spiritual themes, making many of his paintings Religious painting in style. Penn’s Treaty depicts the historic agreement between William Penn and Native Americans, capturing a moment of peaceful diplomacy. Its simple yet expressive style exemplifies the folk art tradition, emphasizing moral and spiritual significance over formal artistry, and showcasing Hicks’s devotion to his faith and community.