Nativity c. 19th century

Editor: This is Edward Smith’s "Nativity." It's a print, and the scene feels quite crowded, almost claustrophobic. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious religious symbolism? Curator: Well, isn’t it interesting how Smith crams everyone in, like they’re all vying for a peek at something miraculous? It's a bit like life, isn't it? Always elbowing for a better view of the divine, or the new, or whatever shines brightest. Smith makes me wonder: are we truly reverent, or just nosy? Editor: That's a fascinating perspective! It definitely makes me look at the crowd differently. I hadn't considered that human element before. Curator: Art's like a mirror, darling. It shows us ourselves, warts and all. And sometimes, a little bit of stardust too.