Life — August 17, 1916 — page 6: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is **not a cartoon or satire page**, but rather a **luxury automobile advertisement** from Life magazine (page 262). The Locomobile Company of America is advertising their 1917 closed-car models. The text highlights that the new coach work sits closer to the ground for "lower step, greater convenience, and smarter appearance." Interior design credits go to Miss Elsie de Wolfe, described as "the leading authority on decoration," known for simplicity and taste. The ad emphasizes exclusivity—production is deliberately limited to allow individual attention to each car. Prices range from $5,600 to $6,800 (substantial sums in 1917). The ornate Art Deco border frames this as premium, high-end marketing. No satire or political commentary is present; this is straightforward aspirational advertising for wealthy consumers.