Life — January 9, 1913 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is **not a cartoon or satire**—it's a straightforward automobile advertisement from *Life* magazine for the 1913 Locomotive automobile by the Locomotive Company of America. The ad features a photograph of an open-air touring car parked outside what appears to be a showroom, with well-dressed potential customers visible. The marketing copy boasts that this is "The Best Built Car in America," emphasizing superior materials (bronze transmission case, chrome parts, nickel steel), advanced features (electric lighting, disc clutch, long wheelbase), and comfort (ten-inch upholstery, smooth ride). This represents early automotive advertising targeting wealthy consumers. No political satire is present; this is product promotion typical of the magazine's commercial content.