Hicks, Edward (American, 1780-1849) American artists

The composition presents a densely populated landscape, dominated by a gathering of animals and two infant figures. The scene unfolds within a lush, verdant environment, characterized by dense foliage and a receding hillside that leads to a riverbank populated with human figures. A group of men, seemingly travelers or settlers, are depicted on horseback and foot, observing the unusual assembly from a distance.
The central focus is drawn to an assemblage of creatures – a longhorn bull, a lion, a tiger, a leopard, a bear, a sheep, a fox, a bird, and an elephant – all positioned in close proximity to one another. These animals, typically representing disparate habitats and behaviors, are rendered without apparent conflict or fear, suggesting a state of unnatural harmony. Two infants, unclothed and seemingly unconcerned by the presence of these powerful beasts, occupy the foreground. One reaches out towards the lion, while the other gestures toward the bull, their actions implying an innocence and dominion over the natural world.
The artist’s use of color is notable; warm autumnal hues define the trees on the left side of the canvas, contrasting with the cooler greens and browns that dominate the central landscape. The light source appears to originate from behind the group of human figures, casting shadows across the foreground and highlighting the animals forms.
Subtexts within this work appear to explore themes of peaceable coexistence and a return to an idealized state of nature. The presence of the humans observing from afar suggests a separation between civilization and a primordial world where natural hierarchies are suspended. The infants’ interaction with the animals hints at a symbolic representation of innocence, purity, or perhaps even divine intervention – a vision of humanity living in harmony with the animal kingdom. The unusual juxtaposition of species invites contemplation on the potential for reconciliation between humankind and nature, while also suggesting a longing for a lost Edenic state.