The Wasp — 1878 — page 48: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon from *The Wasp* magazine appears to depict a shipwreck or maritime disaster scenario. The image shows figures in distress near a ship, with what looks like cargo or supplies visible. The text reads "Ship'd Throught [sic] the Fingers!" suggesting commentary on mismanagement or loss of something valuable—likely cargo, money, or opportunity that slipped away due to negligence or corruption. The style and composition suggest this is criticizing specific political or business figures of the era for failing to properly manage or protect something entrusted to them. Without additional context about the specific date or publication details, the exact individuals being satirized remain unclear, though the maritime disaster metaphor was common in 19th-century American political cartooning.