The Wasp — 1895 — page 850: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features a portrait of **George E. Barnes**, a San Francisco journalist and dramatic critic praised for his editorial work. The accompanying article emphasizes his influence on public opinion and his "masterly style" in handling general topics. The lower cartoon depicts a **fashion/social satire**: a well-dressed woman in an elaborate hat is engaged with a man ("Manager") and another figure ("Actress"). The dialogue—"What the devil are you mooning around here for?" / "Because you will not let me star"—mocks theatrical ambition and the power dynamics between performers and management. The overall page combines **professional admiration** (Barnes's journalism) with **satirical commentary** on show business vanity and female social aspiration in Gilded Age San Francisco.