Life — April 30, 1885 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis This is a political cartoon signed by W.A. Rogers showing a bear wearing a ribbon labeled "PEACE" and "HONOR." The bear appears to be a Russian caricature—a common symbol for Russia in early 20th-century American editorial cartooning. Above, a figure (likely representing another nation or force) looms menacingly in the sky. The cartoon likely comments on Russia's position following a military conflict, satirizing claims of achieving "peace" and "honor" while facing external threats or internal instability. The bear's anxious posture suggests vulnerability despite these proclaimed virtues. The page header reads "WHO LAUGHS LAST," indicating this is commentary on outcomes yet to be determined in an ongoing geopolitical situation, though the specific historical context requires additional dating information to identify precisely.