Life — February 17, 1921 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This page is primarily **advertising**, not satire or political commentary. It's a Life magazine advertisement for The Prudential Insurance Company of America (circa early 1900s, based on publication details). The mural decoration by E.H. Blakfield depicts allegorical figures representing virtues—Prudence (center, on throne with shield), Temperance, Increase, Foresight, Constancy, Thrift, and Order—that supposedly lead people to "Security." Below these symbolic figures are listed working-class occupations (carpenter, electrician, fisherman, etc.) the insurance company aims to protect. The ad's message: insurance provides security and protection for ordinary workers and their families, embodying the virtues depicted above. This is straightforward corporate messaging rather than satirical commentary.