Judge — October 24, 1903 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of "Mashing" (Judge, October 24, 1903) This satirical cartoon depicts a figure (appearing to be a political or social figure in formal dress) performing acrobatic "mashing"—slang for aggressive flirtation or romantic pursuit—before an audience of onlookers. The chorus line references "I've got my eye on you," emphasizing the predatory nature of the behavior being mocked. The caricatured faces and exaggerated expressions suggest this is commentary on someone's inappropriate social conduct or unwanted romantic advances. The architectural setting and formal attire indicate this occurs in a public or elite social space. Without clearer identification of the specific figure or contemporary event, the precise target remains uncertain, though the satire clearly ridicules aggressive flirtation as unseemly public conduct worthy of mockery.