Life — June 15, 1922 — page 18: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This Life magazine cartoon depicts a woman at a piano, viewed from behind, with cherubs or putti emerging from the sheet music above. The caption reads "The Clue Shifter," though the full meaning is unclear from the image alone. The drawing style suggests early-to-mid 20th century. The woman appears to be a pianist, and the whimsical cherubs emerging from the music suggest either a commentary on musical inspiration or possibly a satirical reference to someone's artistic pretensions. Without additional context about the specific date or historical references, the exact subject of satire—whether critiquing a particular performer, musical trend, or social type—remains uncertain.