The Wasp, 1895 · page 639 of 1100
The Wasp — 1895 — page 639: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page is primarily **satirical gossip and social commentary** rather than political cartooning. The "Round and About" column mocks San Francisco's elite social circles: 1. **Commission merchant scandal**: A wealthy businessman seeking a "lady of tact" for his office becomes the subject of ridicule over his failed advertisement. 2. **Bohemian Club gossip**: References to members' infidelities and scandals, suggesting hypocrisy among the city's prominent men. 3. **Nature worship satire**: A journalist's romantic encounter with an unknown woman in the park is mocked for pretentious aesthetic philosophy. The illustrations are decorative vignettes depicting fashionable society figures. The page concludes with a **Royal Baking Powder advertisement**, typical period magazine content. Overall, this demonstrates *The Wasp*'s focus on lampooning San Francisco's wealthy class through society gossip and innuendo.