Life — October 13, 1921 — page 19: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This ink sketch depicts a business or legal consultation, likely from the early 20th century. A man in a pinstriped suit sits at a desk, chin resting on his hand in a contemplative pose, while a woman in period dress sits across from him. The setting appears to be an office with a window visible in the background. The title "The Summing" suggests a final accounting or conclusion—possibly depicting a divorce settlement, business dissolution, or legal matter. The man's pensive expression and the formal positioning suggest serious deliberation about financial or contractual matters. Without additional context from the magazine's surrounding text or advertisements, the specific satirical target remains unclear, though the composition critiques either masculine indecision during negotiations or the gravity of legal proceedings affecting women.