The Wasp — 1895 — page 808: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

**Main Cartoon (left):** A caricatured man with a prominent mustache is depicted as a bicycle wheel, with his face integrated into the wheel's design. The caption reads "Snap Shots by a Wasp Artist in Golden Gate Park—No. 17" and "Jolly Jack Dean Taking it Easy Down Grade." **The Satire:** This appears to be a humorous visual pun on "Jack Dean" (likely a local San Francisco figure), showing him as mechanically circular or obsessed with cycling—a popular 1890s activity. The "taking it easy down grade" suggests he's coasting without effort, possibly mocking his laziness or lack of ambition. **Accompanying Poetry:** Verse attributed to "Jack Dean" celebrates leisure and avoiding work, reinforcing the satirical portrait of someone idle and pleasure-seeking. The page is primarily satirical illustration with light social commentary typical of 1890s American humor magazines.