Illustration to Bell’s ‘Poets’, Scene in Medallion with Cartouches, Etc. Above and Below 

Editor: So, this is Thomas Stothard's 'Illustration to Bell’s ‘Poets’,' and I must say, it feels like peering into a classical dream. What do you see in this intricate little world? Curator: It feels almost theatrical, doesn't it? Stothard, bless his heart, crams this tiny space with so much drama. It’s like a stage set for the muses, all draped fabric and watchful figures. And those cartouches – perfect for witty little titles. Makes you wonder what stories they'd whisper, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely! I hadn't thought of it as theatrical, but now that you mention it, I can see the stage. Thank you. Curator: My pleasure. These pocket-sized dramas were designed to spark the imagination, and perhaps a little gossip.