Judge — May 30, 1891 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a satirical cartoon depicting a miserly state official (caricatured with exaggerated features) sitting on treasure chests labeled "MILLIONS." The figure is being criticized for stinginess regarding funding for "the World's Fair" — likely the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, a major national event requiring state contributions. The cartoon's caption calls the state "the meanest" and "the last to give its appropriation," suggesting a particular state was reluctant or slow in providing financial support compared to others. The formal architectural backdrop and other figures in period dress indicate this is political commentary on state-level reluctance to fund a prestigious national event. The satire mocks both the official's greed and the state's parsimony when broader civic pride or national prestige was at stake.