The Wasp — 1878 — page 96: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a team of horses labeled with what appear to be business or political entities pulling a wagon toward a gate marked "TO CHINA." The horses are harnessed together, with labels visible including "MISSIONARY," "COMMERCE," and what appear to be other institutional names. The caption "YOUR TEAM PULLS TOGETHER, CAN'T YOU SEE THOSE ROCKS?" suggests ironic commentary on coordinated efforts—likely regarding American commercial and missionary expansion into China. The "rocks" in the road appear to represent obstacles or resistance to these ventures. The small figure at bottom (possibly labeled "EUROPE") observes the scene, suggesting international competition or conflict over China's resources and influence during this period of Western imperial expansion.