Life — May 3, 1928 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Life Magazine, May 3, 1928 - Burlesque Number This is a **cover page** for Life's "Burlesque Number," priced at 15 cents. The main image shows a **theatrical makeup design** — specifically a stylized face with exaggerated features typical of stage burlesque performance. The decorative elements surrounding it (ornamental scrollwork and classical motifs) reference theatrical makeup and costuming. The cover is announcing Life's satirical content for this issue, which includes contributions from major publications (Saturday Evening Post, American Mercury, Harper's Bazaar) and humor magazines. "Burlesque" here refers to theatrical **parody and comedic exaggeration** rather than modern meanings — Life is presenting satirical takes on contemporary culture, politics, and society through the lens of theatrical mockery.