Life — November 15, 1917 — page 39: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a **cigarette advertisement**, not political satire. The page promotes Rameses brand cigarettes, manufactured by Stephano Bros. Inc. of Philadelphia. The image depicts a figure in silhouette riding a camel in an Egyptian desert setting, with pyramids visible in the background. This exotic imagery connects the product name "Rameses" (the Egyptian pharaoh) to luxury and prestige. The advertising copy claims Rameses are "the aristocrat of cigarettes" and uses the slogan "Nobody ever changes from Rameses"—implying brand loyalty and superiority. The ad notes packaging options: tens, twenties, week-end tins, and large sizes for special occasions. For modern readers, this represents early-to-mid 20th century cigarette marketing that freely emphasized luxury, sophistication, and exotic appeal—messaging now heavily restricted due to health regulations.