Life — September 27, 1917 — page 17: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a satirical woodcut-style illustration showing what appears to be a lumberjack or woodsman with an axe facing a large tree. The caption "His Turn to Chop" suggests role reversal—the tree is depicted as an anthropomorphic figure with a face, appearing to wear clothing (text on the garment reads "HOMEN" or similar, though unclear). The satire likely comments on labor relations or class conflict: the working man with his axe confronting someone/something of higher status. The surrounding figures in period dress suggest this references a specific historical or contemporary labor dispute, though without additional context, the precise target and date remain unclear. The style and "LIFE" publication masthead indicate this is from the 19th or early 20th century.