Life — February 23, 1893 — page 8: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# High Church Observer: The Nightstore Lent This satirical illustration depicts a formal religious or high-society gathering, likely mocking "High Church" (Anglican/Catholic) observance during Lent. The central figure appears to be a military or ecclesiastical authority addressing a crowd of well-dressed society women and attendees. The sketch's emphasis on elaborate clothing, formal postures, and the gathering's theatrical nature suggests satire aimed at the ostentatious performance of religious observance among the wealthy elite. The title references "nightstore lent," which appears to be a play on words—possibly mocking how commercial establishments ("nightstore") undermine or trivialize the spiritual sacrifice supposedly central to Lenten observance. The cartoon likely critiques the hypocrisy of society's wealthy performing religious piety while maintaining their material indulgences.