Life — March 27, 1919 — page 5: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is primarily a **advertisement**, not satirical content. It promotes Robbins & Myers Motors, manufactured in Springfield, Ohio. The image shows two women in early 1900s dress examining a motor or mechanical device. The ad argues that quality motors—specifically R&M Motors—indicate a manufacturer's standards and reliability. The text emphasizes that leading makers of electrically-driven devices consistently choose Robbins & Myers Motors (ranging 1-50 horsepower) because they ensure "freedom from costly shut-downs due to uncertain operating equipment." The headline "See that It Has This Motor" suggests consumers should verify their household appliances and industrial equipment use this brand as a mark of quality. This reflects the early industrial era when electric motors were becoming standard in home and commercial applications, and brand reputation signaled dependable engineering.