The Wasp — 1876 — page 105: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains two satirical illustrations. The left panel, labeled "THE NEW COLORADO DESERT," depicts a barren landscape with minimal vegetation and a small structure, suggesting desolation or wasteland conditions in Colorado. The right panel, titled "ON THE WAY TO CROSS THE DESERT," shows multiple figures (appearing as caricatures) traveling across sparse terrain with a horse-drawn wagon and what may be military or expedition equipment. The 1876 date suggests these cartoons likely comment on contemporary Colorado settlement, mining operations, or westward expansion challenges. The "desert" imagery satirizes conditions settlers faced—either the harsh environment itself or (possibly) the perceived failure of development efforts. Without additional context, the specific political figures or events referenced remain unclear, though the tone is clearly mocking.