The Wasp — 1896 — page 70: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is primarily a **title/advertising page** for The Wasp's 1896 subscription offerings rather than a political cartoon. The central illustration titled "OSCULATORY DEACONS" depicts two figures in an ambiguous embrace—a thin elderly man in formal dress and a woman in elaborate clothing. The satirical point appears to mock religious hypocrisy, suggesting improper behavior among church deacons despite their positions of moral authority. The term "osculatory" (kissing-related) combined with "deacons" creates the joke. The page advertises various subscription bundles and premium gifts (silver clocks, stem-winding watches) ranging from $5-$6. The decorative wasp motifs frame the content, establishing the magazine's brand identity as a satirical publication targeting social and religious pretense on the Pacific Coast.