Life — November 13, 1919 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is primarily **advertising**, not satire or political commentary. The Michelin Tire Company advertisement celebrates their inventor's achievements, featuring: - A list of Michelin's "firsts": detachable cycle tire (1891), pneumatic auto tire (1895), non-skid tire (1905), demountable rim (1906), and universal tread casing (1915) - An illustration of the famous "Michelin Man" (the Bibendum character, made of tire rings) seated at a table with two businessmen, gesturing expansively - A framed image showing the world's first pneumatic tire demonstration at an 1895 Paris-Bordeaux race The cartoon serves as **brand storytelling**—positioning Michelin as an innovative leader in automotive technology during the early automobile era. The Michelin Man's prominent placement reinforces brand recognition. This represents early corporate advertising that uses visual character branding to build consumer trust and company prestige.