The Wasp — 1878 — page 240: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a cauldron labeled with what appears to be labor-related ingredients being stirred by various figures. The caption reads: "SOUP. SUCH INGREDIENTS MAKE AN UNPALATABLE COMPOUND. IT WILL SICKEN (PAGE 578)." The imagery suggests social commentary on labor issues, possibly criticizing cheap labor practices or exploitative working conditions. The cauldron's "ingredients" appear to include references to hemp and other materials, while figures in various attire (including what appears to be a bearded man in the foreground) represent different social classes or economic actors involved in labor exploitation. The "cheap labor" notation visible at bottom-left further confirms this critique targets labor practices. The overall metaphor suggests these combined elements create something toxic or sickening to society. Without additional context from the magazine's date, the precise political figures remain unclear.