Judge — September 24, 1892 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a satirical cartoon titled "Judge (to Columbia)" featuring an allegorical scene. Columbia—the female personification of America, identifiable by her elaborate classical dress and plumed hat—stands before the U.S. Capitol building. A small, caricatured male figure (appears to be a political judge or official) addresses her with the caption: "Do not be deceived, madam; it is only a ma[sk]" (text cuts off). The cartoon satirizes political deception, warning that appearances in government are misleading. The judge figure seems to be cautioning America herself against trusting surface-level political rhetoric or the facade of governmental institutions. The Capitol serves as backdrop, emphasizing the setting is Washington politics. Without the complete caption or publication date, the specific political situation referenced remains unclear, though the theme warns against political manipulation of the American public.