Life — June 17, 1920 — page 2: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a **Michelin tire advertisement**, not political satire. The page features the Michelin Man (Bibendum), the company's mascot—a rotund, smiling character made of tire treads—prominently displaying a large sign. The ad promotes Michelin's "Universal Cord" tire, emphasizing it as a "sturdy oversize cord tire" offering "supreme durability and freedom from skidding." The message targets early automotive consumers concerned about tire reliability and road safety. The vintage cars illustrated below the sign reflect 1920s-era vehicles, establishing the historical period. The landscape and small car in the distance reinforce automotive themes. This represents straightforward commercial advertising rather than editorial commentary—common content in *Life* magazine during the early automobile era.