Judge — May 19, 1883 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts several bearded men in formal 19th-century attire riding in an ornate carriage labeled "State Dept." The visible caption reads: "Chandler—'I have put my hook in his nose and my bridle in [his mouth].'" The satire appears to criticize Secretary of State William E. Chandler's aggressive control over foreign policy, portraying diplomatic relations as crude manipulation rather than statecraft. The figures likely represent political rivals or nations being "driven" by Chandler's forceful hand. The carriage's elaborate decoration contrasts darkly with the rocky terrain, suggesting reckless governance heading toward destructive consequences. The biblical reference ("hook in his nose") intensifies the critique, suggesting tyrannical control unbefitting diplomatic relations.