Judge — July 17, 1920 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Oil on Troubled Waters" This cartoon by Amos MacDougall depicts a domestic marital conflict. A woman sits dejected, holding flowers, while a man stands distant by a fireplace, turning away from her. The title "Oil on Troubled Waters" is a metaphor referencing the proverb about calming turbulent situations. The satire appears to commentary on relationship discord—likely depicting how one party attempts reconciliation (the woman with flowers) while the other remains emotionally withdrawn. The "oil" suggests futile attempts to smooth over problems. Without additional context about specific 1890s-1910s events Judge magazine was referencing, the cartoon's precise target remains unclear, though it generally mocks failed marital peace efforts and emotional distance between spouses.