Life — October 17, 1907 — page 43: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is primarily a **product advertisement**, not a political cartoon. It features a well-dressed man holding a Gillette Safety Razor, promoting it as a solution to shaving problems. The ad addresses practical concerns of the era: barber visits were expensive, time-consuming, and posed infection risks from unsanitary conditions—a genuine health concern in the early 20th century before modern hygiene standards. The advertisement's appeal is democratic: "There is no reason why every man should not shave himself." This positions the Gillette razor as enabling male independence and self-sufficiency while saving money. The razor's design innovations—no stropping or honing required, disposable blades—are highlighted as major conveniences. Prices range from $5 to $50 depending on the holder material. This reflects the era's broader marketing strategy: selling consumer products as solutions to everyday problems while appealing to masculine self-reliance and economic prudence.