Life — January 18, 1917 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is primarily an **advertisement for Richmond Straight Cut Cigarettes**, not political satire. The large illustration depicts a formal social gathering—likely a ball or reception—where gentlemen in evening wear present cigarette packages to well-dressed ladies and guests. The accompanying text emphasizes the product's quality: "finest...bright, golden Virginia tobacco" with "refinement and delicacy of flavor." The tagline "PREFERRED BY GENTLEMEN NOW AS THEN" suggests the brand's established reputation. The illustration's satirical element appears gentle: it depicts cigarettes as a prestigious gift worthy of formal social occasions, appealing to upper-class masculinity. The price (fifteen cents) and packaging details support this is straightforward product marketing rather than political commentary.