Judge — February 15, 1890 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a military band scene centered on a confrontation between two drum majors or conductors. The figure in the foreground (labeled "Big Grover," appearing to be Grover Cleveland) commands a bass drum while facing off against military and political figures in ornate uniforms behind him. The "headquarters" and "band" signage suggests institutional or governmental authority. The satire appears to mock rival political or military leadership competing for control or supremacy—a "rival drummers" metaphor for competing powers or factions. The elaborate uniforms and caricatured features are typical of Judge's late 19th-century political commentary style. Without the full page context or date, the specific historical event or political rivalry referenced remains unclear, though Cleveland's prominent positioning suggests this addresses a significant contemporary political conflict.