Life — July 2, 1891 — page 11: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon by A. Rogers depicts an allegorical scene titled "BEARERS ALLIANCE." A cherub or cupid figure stands on a pedestal, pointing upward toward a bear constellation or bear-shaped form in the night sky above the Capitol building. An elderly gentleman observes from the left. The "bearers alliance" likely references a political alliance or agreement—the bear typically symbolized Russia in 19th-century political cartoons. The Capitol dome suggests this concerns American foreign policy. The cherub directing attention skyward may represent idealism or guidance toward this alliance. Without the publication date or fuller context visible, the specific political moment remains unclear, but this appears to satirize American diplomatic relations or proposed alliances with Russia during a particular historical period.