Life — June 27, 1918 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical illustration depicts a medieval town square scene centered on what appears to be a slave auction or human sale, with figures being displayed and traded. The "good old days" title suggests ironic nostalgia for historical practices. The satire likely comments on contemporary auctions or markets—possibly labor exploitation, human trafficking, or economic systems that treated people as commodities. The medieval setting allows the artist to distance critique while making a pointed social commentary about modern practices. The chaotic crowd, varied figures, and architectural details suggest a busy marketplace where human dignity is reduced to commercial transaction. Without additional context from the publication date and surrounding pages, the specific target remains somewhat unclear, though the satirical intent is evident.