Lot 1136: John Hall (1739-1797), after Benjamin West (1738-1820) Fine American and European Furniture, Silver, Folk and Decorative Arts and Clocks

William Penn's Treaty with the Indians, 1775 Engraving published by John Boydell, London 16 5/8 x 23 1/4in (39.7 x 59 cm)

39.7 x 59 cm

While this scene was depicted by other artists, including Edward Hicks, the original upon which this was based was painted by Benjamin West, who is generally recognized as the father of American history painting. In 1772, the year West painted the original, he was named historical painter to King George III. The engraving is an allegorical image of peace and depicts the meeting of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania, with the Lenni Lenape Indians at Shackamaxon on the Delaware.