Life — January 13, 1898 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "William of Germany" This page from *Life* magazine (page 29) presents a portrait sketch labeled "William of Germany." Based on the distinctive facial features—particularly the upturned mustache, intense eyes, and military bearing suggested by the collar—this appears to be **Kaiser Wilhelm II**, Germany's ruler during the early 20th century. The sketch's placement in a satirical American publication suggests this is likely political commentary, possibly relating to pre-WWI tensions or German militarism. The exaggerated rendering of facial features was typical of *Life*'s caricature style. Without additional context or accompanying text on this page, the specific satirical point remains unclear, though *Life*'s treatment of foreign leaders was typically critical.