Life — July 31, 1913 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis The main cartoon depicts an Egyptian-themed social scene with figures in classical dress. The advertisement reads "Egyptian Deities: The Utmost in Cigarettes, Cork Tips or Plain," using ancient Egypt as a marketing motif—common in the 1920s when Egyptian aesthetics were fashionable following Tutankhamun's tomb discovery (1922). The accompanying article "The Incompetence of Successful Men" argues that failure often teaches more than success, using business examples. It suggests that competent failures understand their mistakes better than successful men who may not comprehend their own operations. The page also advertises stockings by Peck & Peck and Chiclotts beverages. The content reflects 1920s consumer culture and business philosophy rather than explicit political satire.