The First Kiln Fire (Das erste Ofenfeuer) c. 19th century

Editor: This is August Gaber's print, "The First Kiln Fire". It's rather charming! A family all gathered around what I presume is a fire. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Charm indeed, but it's tinged with something bittersweet. Notice the contrast: the youthful exuberance around the kiln versus the elder, seemingly weary man to the side. A fire suggests warmth and hope, but also transience. What's being fired, I wonder? Perhaps not just clay, but futures. Editor: That's a lovely thought. It makes me look at it in a whole new light. Curator: Art always reflects, and refracts, doesn't it? Makes you think what fires are being lit and what hopes are being forged, even today.