Life — October 3, 1912 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Perfect Costume" as We Sometimes See It This page satirizes theatrical costume design through caricatured "incorrect" interpretations of famous operatic and dramatic roles. The top shows the word "LIFE" formed by figures in various theatrical costumes, establishing the theme. Below are four labeled sketches mocking exaggerated or absurd costume choices: 1. **Caruso creates a Rough Cowboy** - the famous tenor apparently dressed inappropriately for his role 2. **Schumann-Heink's "convincing" clothes in Brünnhilde** - suggesting oversized or unflattering costume choices 3. **Leslie-Carter's conception of an 18th Century Marquise (Dubarry)** - depicted with exaggerated proportions 4. **Fay Templeton's idea of a Newport Hostess** - marked "(much too refused)," implying the costume was rejected as improper The satire targets theatrical performers who prioritize spectacle or personal style over historical or character accuracy in costuming.