Judge — September 5, 1903 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon from *Judge* magazine appears to depict a large, menacing vampire or bat-like creature labeled "OPEN" emerging from what looks like a Russian architectural setting (visible onion domes in the background). The creature has prominent fangs and an aggressive posture. The title references "THE RUSSI[AN]" and "The Czar," suggesting this is anti-Russian satire. The vampire imagery was a common metaphor in early 20th-century American political cartoons to portray Russia—particularly under czarist rule—as a bloodsucking, threatening force. The "OPEN" label likely refers to Russia's expansionist ambitions or aggressive foreign policy. This reflects period anxieties about Russian imperial power and, possibly, Bolshevism, making Russia appear monstrous and predatory to American audiences.