Life — April 6, 1916 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is primarily a **champagne advertisement**, not political satire. It promotes "Great Western Champagne" from Pleasant Valley Wine Co. in Rheims, N.Y. The ad uses a well-dressed man in formal evening wear as an aspirational figure, paired with champagne bottles and glasses. The headline "Discriminating People Prefer" suggests the product appeals to refined, upper-class consumers. The text emphasizes the champagne's awards and credentials—gold medals from international competitions (Paris, Bruxelles, Vienna) and claims it's "the only American Champagne" to achieve this recognition. The phrase "Typifying the Supreme in Quality" reinforces luxury positioning. This reflects early 1900s advertising strategy: associating a product with sophistication, wealth, and good taste to attract affluent buyers.