1919 Campbell's Vegetable Soup Print Ad

Print Ads
Aug 10, 2017
1919campbells
This copy heavy 1919 Campbell's Soup ad answers the simple question. "What shall we have for dinner?" making dinner simple. Red areas are most likely to attract attention, followed by Yellow/Orange areas, and Blue areas. Areas that have no color overlay are unlikely to attract visual attention. The Regions Report graphically represents the likely distribution of visual attention during preattentive processing. Any area or object that is identified as one of the first 4 predicted fixations is highly likely to be noticed at first glance, regardless of its 1, 2, 3, or 4 order.

Image Description

A vintage 1919 Campbell's Vegetable Soup ad, featuring playful illustrations of children and a large soup can. The ad is text-heavy, promising a simple solution to meal planning with Campbell's soup.

Positive Aspects

The image effectively utilizes a charming, nostalgic illustration to draw attention and create an emotional connection. The visual appeal of the children and the soup can immediately engage viewers, while the detailed copy offers a persuasive argument for choosing Campbell's soup. The combination of imagery and text makes the ad both eye-catching and informative.

Key Takeaways

  • Visual Hierarchy: The ad uses strategic color placements and illustrations to guide the viewer's attention toward key elements.
  • Problem-Solution Approach: It addresses a common household dilemma—what to have for dinner—offering Campbell's soup as a convenient solution.
  • Emotional Appeal: The use of playful, relatable characters creates an emotional bond with the audience, enhancing brand affinity.
  • Historical Context: The ad reflects early 20th-century marketing strategies, focusing heavily on text to convey product benefits.

Additional Insights

This ad is a great example of how early marketers balanced visual elements and copy to communicate effectively. The playful imagery taps into a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of simpler times when meal solutions were straightforward. It's a testament to the enduring power of good branding and clear messaging. Plus, who wouldn’t want a taste of history for just 12 cents a can?