Life — December 28, 1916 — page 20: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This appears to be a satirical illustration depicting a social gathering of wealthy or upper-class figures in an ornate interior setting. The caption "SEE NO EVIL — SPEAK NO EVIL" suggests the cartoon critiques selective blindness or willful ignorance among the elite regarding social problems. The phrase plays on the "three wise monkeys" proverb. The gathered figures—rendered in formal dress and surrounded by luxury (decorative walls, plants, fine furnishings)—seem to be deliberately ignoring or refusing to acknowledge some issue or wrongdoing, possibly related to labor, inequality, or political corruption. The partially visible title "Their Hired Man at" (text cut off) suggests commentary on class relationships or exploitation. Without the complete caption or publication date, the specific scandal or social issue referenced remains unclear.