Life — February 12, 1920 — page 10: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Whence It Came" This appears to be a satirical illustration depicting a figure hunched over coins and money in a dimly lit, cramped setting—rendered in dark, expressionistic style. The figure's exaggerated facial features and posture suggest moral critique rather than celebration of wealth. The title "Whence It Came" implies commentary on the *origins* of money or wealth, likely questioning its moral sources. The candle, sparse surroundings, and furtive pose suggest ill-gotten gains or greed. This fits Life magazine's tradition of social satire, possibly critiquing materialism, corruption, or miserliness during the Gilded Age or Progressive Era. Without additional context or byline visible, the specific target remains unclear, but the image functions as a morality tale about wealth's questionable origins.