Judge — June 20, 1925 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Judge Magazine Cover Analysis This is the cover of Judge magazine's "Bathing Girl Number" from June 20, 1925, priced at 15 cents. The illustration by Ruth Eastman depicts a woman in a black bathing suit dramatically posing with flowing fabric, accompanied by the caption "HOW'S THIS FOR A COVER?" The satire appears self-referential—Judge is literally asking readers' opinions on its own cover choice. In 1925, bathing girl imagery was popular magazine cover material, particularly during summer months. This was part of the era's cultural shift toward more relaxed attitudes about women's bodies and beach fashion. The pose and theatrical styling reflect Art Deco aesthetics typical of 1920s illustration. The "Bathing Girl Number" was a common magazine specialty issue format of the period.