Judge — December 31, 1887 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Bubbles" - Judge Magazine, December 31, 1887 This cartoon, credited to artist Hamilton, satirizes a rotund, mustachioed gentleman in ornate military dress and decorations, blowing bubbles. The title "Bubbles" and subtitle reference "Sir J. E. Milais' Christmas Picture," indicating the artist is parodying a famous contemporary painting. The satire likely mocks either a specific political or military figure of 1887, portraying them as insubstantial or frivolous—bubbles being ephemeral. The elaborate uniform and medals suggest someone of high rank or pretension. The dark, cavernous setting contrasts with the lightness of bubbles, possibly suggesting hollowness behind impressive external trappings. Without identifying the specific figure, the cartoon critiques vanity, military posturing, or political pomposity through the bubble metaphor.