Judge, 1928-04-14 · page 35 of 36
Judge — April 14, 1928 — page 35: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a satirical advertisement (self-consciously labeled as such) promoting Judge magazine subscriptions. The cartoon depicts a man sprawled on the ground after apparently falling or being knocked down, with onlookers nearby—a scene of physical mishap presented as "artistic" observation. The joke critiques both aspiring artists and Judge itself: the text ironically claims that becoming an artist is profitable and fun, contrasting sharply with the visual chaos. Readers are invited to "test their talent" by marking an X on a coupon; if Judge deems it talented, they receive 52 issues. The humor is self-aware—the asterisk disclaimer notes the advertisement cannot be held against the editors, acknowledging the absurdity. It's essentially Judge mocking its own subscription solicitation while poking fun at people who might seriously consider art careers, using slapstick misfortune as the supposed exemplary "artistic observation" worth studying.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
s drawing was taken from an “Howdy, Missus Williams! doing this! And t has been ¢ I AVE you ever sertously con- templated becoming an ar- tist?, Why be a slave to business artists have fun and entertainment, as well as untold millions.” Work is the answer to suce Now is the time to start. You will find a coupon at the bottom of this page. Try your luck at mak- ing an X in the little white [7] at the top of the coupon. If we think your X shows talent we will send you 52 issues of a magazine crammed full of the funniest illus- trations in America. See what have done. You, too, may develop these queer humorous tendencies after a year’s these men of Tenor while the « Mornin’, Miss Terry!” observation. But first try your luck with the little X so you can Judge for yourself how profitable, entertaining drawing can be. and educational *This advertisement can in no iy be held against the editors of this magazine. Judge Publishing Co., Ine, 627 W. 43rd St. New York City. Gentlemen: Here is my X. the spot where five doll 52 O marks irs is enclosed for weeks of JUbGE, to be mailed to Name. Address. City... comicbooks.com