Judge, 1921-09-24 · page 19 of 36
Judge — September 24, 1921 — page 19: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a portrait sketch of **David Belasco**, a prominent American theatrical producer and director of the late 19th/early 20th century. The caption is satirical, mocking his theatrical reputation and distinctive appearance—particularly his famous "magnetic forelock" (the swept-back hair visible in the profile). The satire suggests Belasco wielded almost mystical influence over theater through his "intuition" and personal magnetism, humorously comparing his theatrical methods to "astrology." The phrase about turning "the firmament green with envy" exaggerates his perceived dominance of the theatrical world. This appears to be part of a larger article about Belasco (referenced as being on the opposite page). The humor relies on readers' familiarity with Belasco as a theatrical figure known for his distinctive appearance and commanding personality in American theater.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Drawn from life by Leo MIBLZINER. Amonc Tuose PLeasant—Davip BELasco “UNDER THE WIZARDRY OF HIS THEATRIC INTUITION AND THE I RATION OF HIS MAGNETIC FORELOCK, HE DEVELOPED A SCHOOL ASTROLOGY THAT WAS TO TURN THE VERY FIRMAMENT GREEN WITH ENVY.” (See article on onposite pag: 19 comicbooks.com