Goggles have their uses (1903)

"Goggles Have Their Uses," created in 1903 by American artist Samuel Ehrhart, is a vividly colorful and satirical illustration that captures the bustling energy of early 20th-century leisure and transportation. This playful artwork is divided into several vignettes that humorously depict the adventures and mishaps of upper-class society with their novel motorcars.In the central, large oval scene, a fashionable woman equipped with goggles confidently drives her red automobile, attracting attention and admiration from onlookers. This central figure symbolizes the emergence of modern women who embraced new technologies and freedom. Surrounding this are smaller scenes: one depicts a startled gentleman as his horse reacts to an approaching car; another shows a group of men, puzzled and amused by a car's mechanical failure; while yet another illustrates a jovial conversation between cyclists and motorists at a rustic inn.Ehrhart, known for his light-hearted approach to societal changes, uses bright, lively colors and caricature-style figures to emphasize the comedic aspects of these interactions between old and new modes of transport. The title, "Goggles Have Their Uses," not only refers to the practical use of goggles to protect one's eyes while driving but also wittily comments on the necessity to 'see' and adapt to a rapidly changing world.