The Wasp — 1895 — page 856: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical illustration depicts a massive public structure labeled "GRAND NATIONAL WIGWAM" — likely referencing a major political convention venue. A large archway or entrance reads "HARMONY UNTIL PUBLIC SPIRIT" (text partially unclear in OCR). A crowd of well-dressed men and women gather before the building, while a flag flies atop. The cartoon appears to criticize political gatherings or conventions, suggesting they promise "harmony" and "public spirit" but fail to deliver genuine unity or civic virtue. The "Wigwam" reference likely evokes historical convention venues, possibly the 1860 Republican National Convention held at the Wigwam in Chicago. Without clearer dating or additional context from *The Wasp*, the specific political moment remains unclear, though the satire targets perceived hypocrisy in political theater and public declarations of solidarity.