The Wasp — 1895 — page 1030: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon mocks the affected manners of high society at equestrian events. The caption explains that the "elevated style of salutation" shown here—an exaggerated handshake at a horse show—has become an affliction among the wealthy and fashionable classes. The illustration depicts a man and elaborately dressed woman greeting each other with theatrical formality at what appears to be a public equestrian venue (visible spectators and grandstand in background). The satire targets the pretentious social rituals and artificial etiquette adopted by the upper class, suggesting they've become absurdly self-conscious about their mannerisms. The "wasp" publication specialized in lampooning American high society's vanity and social pretension during the late 19th/early 20th century.