Judge — September 9, 1882 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *Judge* magazine depicts a formal dinner scene with exaggerated facial features typical of late 19th/early 20th-century political satire. The title references "THE UNITED STATES, AND THE MILLIONAIRES," suggesting the cartoon critiques the relationship between government and wealthy industrialists. The central figure—a distinguished gentleman in formal attire—appears to represent either a judge or government official, while the clustered men on the right, characterized by prominent mustaches and aggressive expressions, likely represent wealthy businessmen or industrialists. Their physical positioning and body language suggest they're either pressuring or controlling the central authority figure. The satire appears to comment on the corruption or undue influence of wealthy interests over American judicial or governmental systems—a common Progressive Era critique. The decorative furnishings and refined setting contrast ironically with the suggestion of impropriety.