Puck — June 12, 1878 — page 16: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This allegorical design appears to reference a "Memorial of the European Peace Congress." At the center stands a winged angelic figure (Peace) elevated above the scene. Below her, three caricatured figures in military dress—labeled with "ENGLAND," "FRANCE," and appearing to include German representation—are depicted in a subservient or struggling position, seemingly pulling or supporting the Peace monument. The winged demon or devil figure at the top and the columned pedestals with animal figures suggest competing national interests and powers. The surrounding observers (shown as silhouettes) witness this political theater. The satire appears to critique the diplomatic efforts toward peace in Europe, suggesting that national military powers cynically manipulate peace efforts for their own advantage, rather than genuinely pursuing it. The composition ironically elevates Peace while showing worldly powers literally supporting her from below.