Judge — October 4, 1919 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "The Wishing Ring" This illustration by Guy Howe depicts a woman's face surrounded by twelve male heads in a circular arrangement, titled "The Wishing Ring." The image appears to reference a romantic or matrimonial fantasy—the "wishing ring" likely alludes to the folklore concept of wishes coming true. The central female face suggests a woman surrounded by potential suitors or romantic options, typical of Judge magazine's satirical commentary on courtship and marriage customs of the early 20th century. The varying expressions and head angles of the surrounding men suggest different "types" or prospects. The satire likely mocks either women's romantic aspirations, the abundance of available men vying for attention, or contemporary courtship conventions. Without additional context about whether these represent specific public figures or simply generic "types," the precise satirical target remains unclear, though the overall theme addresses gender relations and romance.