The Wasp — 1878 — page 410: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is the title page of *The San Francisco Illustrated Wasp* from June 29, 1878. The main cartoon depicts a well-dressed man in a top hat riding a goat labeled "DEMOCRACY'S STEED." The figure appears to be a political leader or party operative, and the caption "Principle Above the Party" suggests satirical commentary on someone claiming to prioritize principles while actually being driven by partisan interests. The goat—a traditionally stubborn, unpredictable animal—likely represents the instability or absurdity of partisan politics. The artist (signed "Keller") is mocking the hypocrisy of political rhetoric about principle versus actual party-driven behavior. Without additional context about 1878 California politics, the specific target remains unclear, though this appears to criticize duplicitous political leadership.