Puck — August 15, 1877 — page 16: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains political satire centered on **"Excise"** (a tax), shown as a large figure dominating the composition. The cartoon appears to criticize excise taxation policy, depicting it as an oppressive force. The central figure labeled "EXCISE" looms over smaller human figures, likely representing ordinary citizens or taxpayers being burdened or crushed by tax obligations. Various smaller vignettes surround the main image, though specific details are difficult to read due to image quality. The satirical point appears to be **warning against or mocking excessive excise taxes** and their impact on the public. Without clearer text or date information visible, the exact historical context remains unclear, though excise tax debates were common in American political discourse throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.