Life, 1920-12-02 · page 83 of 97
Life — December 2, 1920 — page 83: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is a **product advertisement**, not political satire. It promotes Chase Drednaut Motor Topping—a convertible car top material manufactured by L.C. Chase & Co. The ad targets early-20th-century automobile owners, arguing that cheap or unknown-material car tops require frequent replacement. The "Drednaut" brand claims superior durability and aesthetic appeal while protecting against weather. The illustrated car shows the black convertible top in use. The ornamental winter landscape border establishes a seasonal context—suggesting the product's value during harsh conditions. The copy emphasizes that discriminating car owners and manufacturers chose this standard material, appealing to consumers' desire for quality and status. This represents typical early automotive advertising strategy: positioning reliable products as markers of good taste and practical wisdom.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
pREDNAUY Motor Topping Tops made of unknown materials add greatly to upkeep costs. A top of Chase Drednaut Motor Topping will outwear several ordinary tops. Leading automobile manufacturers who take just pride in their cars, buy Chase Drednaut Motor Topping for their patrons. The discriminating car owner insists upon this standard motor topping, knowing that it enhances the beauty of the car, while serving as protection against the elements. Re-top with this standard material and be worry free. L. C. CHASE & CO. BOSTON SAN _FRANCISCO. comicbooks.com