Life — October 11, 1888 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Hutting Season at Newport" This satirical cartoon depicts wealthy socialites engaged in what appears to be a hunting or sport activity at Newport, Rhode Island—the exclusive resort destination for America's richest families. The caption's title puns on "hutting" (likely a sport like golf or polo), playing on "hunting season." The detailed illustration shows elegantly dressed figures in an exaggerated, frenzied scene of activity and competition. The satire likely mocks Newport's leisure class—their pretentious sporting pursuits, competitive social climbing, and excess. The chaotic composition suggests the undignified scramble beneath high-society's refined facade. This reflects Life magazine's regular criticism of Gilded Age wealth disparity and aristocratic American culture during the early 20th century.