Life — August 28, 1902 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon from *Life* magazine (August 28, 1902) depicts classical allegorical figures—likely representing Justice, Wisdom, and other virtues—presenting an award to Paris (the Trojan prince, identifiable by his position among goddesses). The title references the famous mythological "Judgment of Paris," where Paris awarded a golden apple to the goddess he deemed most beautiful, sparking the Trojan War. The satire likely comments on the 1900 Paris Exposition or contemporary international competitions, suggesting Paris's consistent tendency to award itself first prize—a witty jab at French self-regard and favoritism in judging. The classical setting underscores the absurdity by connecting modern vanity to ancient myth.