Life, 1927-10-20 · page 41 of 48
Life — October 20, 1927 — page 41: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This is **not a cartoon or satire page** — it's a **luxury automobile advertisement** for Packard automobiles, positioned within *Life* magazine. The page features a 1920s-era Packard sedan automobile illustration alongside promotional text emphasizing upholstery quality. There are two supplementary images: a historical painting (apparently depicting wealthy patrons of the arts under Louis XIV) and a sketch of what appears to be a coach-building workshop. The advertisement's strategy connects Packard automobiles to refined taste and European craftsmanship tradition. The tagline "Ask the man who owns one" was Packard's actual famous slogan, implying that satisfied wealthy owners themselves would validate the brand's prestige. This represents early 20th-century aspirational marketing — selling not transportation but status and cultural sophistication to affluent readers.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
Tittle a AACKARD requires in upholstery all that modern science can add to the ancient art of textile weaving. Skilled specialists select the finest fabrics from the looms of Europe and America. Quality first, then beauty of color and design are considered. From the whole world of materials open to its choice Packard has selected the most beautiful, These are immedi- ately available. From them the Packard Eight buyer may choose with the assurance that they represent not only perfect workmanship but exquisite silks and velours. taste. For those desiring the individuality of custom bodies and special upholstery, Packard quickly procures tapestry, needle- point—any fabric durable and appro- which the most ex- priate broadcloths, Pp A Gc K A R D acting buyer wishes. ASK THE MAN WHO OWNS ONE comicbooks.com