Judge — April 21, 1894 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon from Judge magazine (April 21, 1894) uses darkly comic symbolism to criticize a political figure. Two men dig a grave while a donkey (symbol of the Democratic Party) stands above, and the U.S. Capitol dome appears in the background—establishing this as commentary on national politics. The caption—"Oh, what was I begun for, if I'm so soon to be done for?"—suggests the subject has failed or is facing political ruin. The grave-digging appears literal-visual satire: the figure's own policies or actions are destroying him politically. Without clearer identifying caricature features visible, the specific target remains unclear, though the 1894 date and Democratic donkey suggest criticism of Cleveland's administration or a related Democratic political figure during that economically troubled period.