Life, 1926-10-21 · page 4 of 44
Life — October 21, 1926 — page 4: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is not a political cartoon or satire—it's a **straightforward advertisement** for Gorham silverware, specifically their "Colfax" pattern of sterling silver flatware. The image shows an older craftsman examining a ornate serving piece, demonstrating Gorham's claim to quality craftsmanship. The ad identifies him as "Alexander D. Philip for 36 years a Gorham Master Craftsman," lending credibility through his experience. The text emphasizes that the Colfax pattern's design is timeless—elegant enough to resist changing fashions. Gorham positions itself as "America's leading silversmiths for over 90 years," targeting affluent consumers seeking heirloom-quality flatware. This represents typical early-20th-century luxury advertising strategy: associating products with skilled artisanship and permanence.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
COLFAX by the Master Craftsmen In the Colfax pattern you will find craftsman- ALEXANDER D. PHILIP for 36 years a Gorham Master Craftsman of the Durgin Division, Con- cord, N. H., — inspect- ing a Colfax coffee pot. COLFAX PATTERN in sterling silver Tea spoons 6 for $9.50 Dessert knives 6 for 19.00 Dessert forks 6 for 21.50 ship which is artistry indeed. So lovely in de- sign that passing fad or fancy cannot affect it. Wroughtso skillfully time cannot dim its beauty. Your jeweler will be glad to show you Colfax and many other patterns in sterling silver by the Gorham Master Craftsmen. GORHAM PROVIDENCE, R. I. NEW YORK, N. Y Member of Sterling Silversmiths’ Guild of America Ortaber 21. 1928. Ratered an Chase Mi 1S, atthe Fest OO 0m ared a Bacon latter, Jone B. 158, ot (| u Weenis by Life Poh Co. ot % ‘Coorright, 1808. LIVE, ta the U. B, IPE: Publlabed Satchel SONA Baed as eT is Bats aS elt i Now York, N. ¥,, oder the act of March 8, 157%. Pristed is U. SA. Ratored an Clase Mattar wt the Post comicbooks.com