Judge — February 26, 1916 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "The Belle That Calls to Mardi Gras" This February 1916 *Judge* cartoon depicts a figure in theatrical Mardi Gras costume—tall pointed hat and ruffled collar—seemingly calling or beckoning. The title's wordplay ("belle" suggesting both an attractive woman and the literal bell sound) plays on Mardi Gras traditions of New Orleans celebration. The image appears to be satirizing either the carnival season itself or perhaps someone's attraction to or promotion of Mardi Gras festivities. The dramatic lighting and theatrical presentation emphasize the spectacle and excess associated with the event. Without additional context identifying the specific figure, the cartoon's precise political target remains unclear, though it likely comments on contemporary American attitudes toward Southern traditions or perhaps critiques consumption and revelry.