Life — December 2, 1901 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Life Magazine Christmas Number, 1901 This is the cover of *Life* magazine's 1901 Christmas issue (price 25 cents). The illustration depicts an allegorical female figure—likely representing Peace, Plenty, or Christmas itself—floating among clouds with wings spread wide. She holds a cornucopia overflowing with gifts and is attended by a cherub. The ornate decorative border frames elaborate masks or theatrical faces, suggesting themes of festivity and celebration. The elaborate Art Nouveau styling and classical imagery reflect the magazine's sophisticated aesthetic. This appears to be a straightforward holiday cover celebrating abundance and goodwill rather than political satire, which was common for *Life*'s seasonal issues. The 1901 dating places this during the McKinley presidency and post-Spanish American War period.