Judge — October 24, 1908 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is primarily a **Wirt Fountain Pen advertisement**, not political satire. The ad appropriates political imagery for commercial purposes. The banner reads "PAUL E. WIRT FOUNTAIN PEN IS THE CHOICE OF BOTH REPUBLICANS AND DEMOCRATS," with two oval portraits of men flanking this text. The advertisement claims the Wirt pen has been "the standard" for over 30 years and is "always ready, always writes." Below, it promotes the "WIRT SAFETY FOUNTAIN PEN," emphasizing it cannot leak even when carried in a pocket in "any position." The political reference is generic—appealing to both parties suggests universal American appeal rather than endorsing specific figures. The imagery of a Capitol building and crowd below reinforces themes of broad democratic endorsement, using patriotic iconography to sell a commercial product.