Life — December 5, 1918 — page 53: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This illustration depicts the famous German folk legend of the Pied Piper of Hamelin—a mysterious musician who allegedly led away all the children of a town after the townspeople refused to pay him for ridding them of rats. The image shows a tall figure in a hat and coat, playing a pipe while children of various ages follow him down a medieval street lined with buildings. The children appear enchanted or compelled by his music. This appears as a straightforward literary illustration rather than political satire. Published under "Christmas Life," it likely served as festive seasonal content—a classic tale appropriate for the holiday issue. The page number 855 suggests this is from a substantial publication.