Judge — October 10, 1885 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page shows a political cartoon titled "THE JUDGE" (visible on the right margin). The image depicts a large, rotund judicial figure seated on an elevated throne or bench, wielding what appears to be a gavel or mallet against power lines or utility poles. The figure wears ornate robes decorated with circular medallions and holds the implements of justice. The cartoon likely satirizes judicial power over utility companies or monopolies—common targets of Gilded Age satire. The heavy, authoritative judge figure suggests both the weight of legal authority and, possibly, corruption or self-importance. Without clearer text identifying specific figures or dates, the precise target remains unclear, though it appears critical of either judicial overreach or inadequate regulation of major industries.