Life — November 19, 1891 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Life Magazine Thanksgiving Number, November 19, 1891 This is the cover of Life magazine's special Thanksgiving issue. The central image depicts an angel figure with large wings holding a cornucopia or harvest basket, surrounded by smaller cherub figures. Large decorative letters spelling "LIFE" tower above the angelic figure. The banner reads "THANKSGIVING 1891" and "NUMBER," identifying this as a holiday special edition. Below the main illustration are six small vignette panels showing various Thanksgiving-related scenes, likely depicting traditional holiday activities or meals. The artwork uses classical allegorical imagery—the winged angel representing gratitude and divine blessing—common to late-19th-century holiday publications. This appears to be a straightforward celebratory cover rather than political satire, emphasizing abundance and spiritual thanksgiving themes appropriate for the holiday season.