Life, 1911-10-19 · page 2 of 48
Life — October 19, 1911 — page 2: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# Analysis This page is primarily **advertising**, not satire or political commentary. It features a full-page ad for the Waverley Electric Limousine-Five automobile, manufactured by The Waverley Company of Indianapolis, Indiana. The advertisement emphasizes the car's "full view ahead" feature—showing a drawing of the vehicle with passengers visible through windows, approaching a castle-like gate. Two dogs are depicted in the foreground. The marketing copy highlights that this enclosed electric car offers "a wholly unobstructed view through the front window," emphasizing safety and the driver's full command of the road. This represents early automotive advertising aimed at wealthy buyers, showcasing electric vehicles (which were popular luxury items before gasoline engines dominated). The castle imagery suggests elegance and status.