Judge — December 4, 1920 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Explanation for Modern Readers This is a winter scene by artist Johnny Gruelle titled "Yapp's Crossing: Santa Claus's Whiskers Get in Touch with the Xmas Candles." The cartoon depicts a crowded holiday celebration at what appears to be a small town or village square, with numerous figures enjoying winter activities around buildings and a prominent church or bell tower. The humor appears to reference Santa Claus's beard catching fire from Christmas candles—a physical comedy scenario typical of Judge magazine's satirical style. The chaotic scene with many characters suggests slapstick mishap. Without additional context about "Yapp's Crossing," the specific satirical target remains unclear, though the overall scene parodies holiday commercialization and village festivities common to early 20th-century American seasonal commentary.