Life, 1929-04-12 · page 43 of 44
Life — April 12, 1929 — page 43: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
The page is a **Studebaker automobile advertisement** disguised as editorial content about the International Polo Matches at Meadowbrook, Long Island—a wealthy enclave associated with high society and status. The ad's strategy: associate the Studebaker car with prestige by placing it in an aspirational social setting. The photograph shows polo spectators (affluent crowds), implying that Studebaker owners belong among the fashionable elite who frequent such exclusive venues. The text claims Studebaker holds "every official stock car record" and pairs engineering excellence with aesthetic sophistication. The tagline "Builder of Champions" reinforces this positioning. The car shown is "The President Straight Eight Roadster for Four"—the name itself suggesting leadership and power. This approach—linking consumer products to wealth, exclusivity, and social achievement—was standard advertising strategy in this era.
📄 Transcribed text from this page (OCR, searchable)
Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.
INTERNATIONAL POLO MATCHES .. MEADOWBROOK LONG ISLAND, N.Y. Nl / EADOWBROOK, colorful rendez- s of fashion, fame and finance, is just as keenly appreciative of motor merit as of spirited horse- flesh, At such famous play-places,championship performance, fresh styling, and restful riding have caused Studebaker’s great new cights and sixes to become a familiar sight. Studebaker, holder of every official stock car record for fleet- ness and stamina,has preempted aswell vigorous leadership in fashion, Artist and artisan—crafts- man and engineer--have achieved a new and happy harmony. Lines are long and low. Colors are youthful and alive. Travel ease, docile obedience and supple suavity of power are thrown into still higher relief by Studebaker’s One-Profit pricing. The car illustrated is The President Straight Eight Roadster for Four. udebaher BUILDER OF CHAMPIONS comicbooks.com