Life — May 24, 1923 — page 23: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a bride and groom at what appears to be a church doorway, surrounded by figures labeled "RICE" and "TOMATO" throwing projectiles at the newlyweds. The "well-wishers" are caricatured as rough or working-class men in hats, engaged in the traditional practice of throwing rice and tomatoes at newly married couples. The satire likely mocks either the rowdiness of this custom or comments on class dynamics—suggesting that enthusiastic but uncouth "well-wishers" might be more of a nuisance than a blessing. The exaggerated, almost violent energy of the figures throwing projectiles transforms what should be a joyful tradition into something chaotic and potentially harmful. The cartoon critiques the behavior of wedding guests or perhaps social customs themselves.