Life, 1913-05-22 · page 31 of 48
Life — May 22, 1913 — page 31: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a **product advertisement**, not a cartoon. It promotes Kodak's "Vest Pocket" camera, a miniature portable camera marketed to early 20th-century consumers. The page emphasizes the camera's compact size (fits in a vest pocket) while claiming professional-quality output (pictures 1⅝ × 2⅛ inches that enlarge well). The accompanying photographs show the camera's actual small size and its accordion-style bellows design. The advertising copy appeals to efficiency and practicality—values emphasized by the headline "The very essence of efficiency"—reflecting the broader early-1900s American enthusiasm for portable, convenient technologies. The $6.00 price was relatively accessible for the era. There is no political satire or caricature here. This is straightforward commercial promotion from Eastman Kodak Company.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
The very essence of efficiency Vest Pocket KODAK Right as a watch in adjustment and in the refine- ment of every detail. Literally small enough for the vest pocket, yet takes pictures 15 x 2% inches, and of such perfect definition that enlargements may be made to any reasonable size. Has Kodak Ball Bearing shutter with iris diaphragm stops, meniscus achromatic lens, Autotime scale and brilliant reversible finder. Loads in daylight with Kodak film cartridge for eight exposures. A fixed focus makes it always ready for quick work. Lustrous black metal finish. Price, $6.00 Kodak Catalogue, free at your dealers or by mail. EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY, ROCHESTER, N. Y., The Kodak City. comicbooks.com