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Frame

Date1818

Maker Edward Hicks (1780-1849)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Friends of Colonial Williamsburg Collections Fund

Object number2017.302.1,B

Label TextThis past January, the Foundation acquired a previously-unknown drawing by the celebrated folk painter, Edward Hicks. Colonial Williamsburg holds the largest single collection of works by the Quaker artist, who today is widely recognized for his Peaceable Kingdom paintings. Trained as a sign and carriage painter, Hicks was particularly fond of easel painting. In addition to biblical and historical subjects, he rendered numerous pastoral and farm views for neighbors, family and friends. This watercolor, signed and dated by Hicks, is most likely a preparatory drawing for one of these farmscapes. While many of these sketches must have existed during his lifetime, Colonial Williamsburg’s latest acquisition is the only signed example known to survive. Look for this rare work on view at the AARFAM in an upcoming exhibition on the life and work of the artist.