The Wasp — 1888 — page 110: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon from *The Wasp* (February 11, 1888) depicts a scene titled "Bearding the Lion in His Lair." A man in military or official dress sits before a mirror, examining his reflection while adjusting his appearance. Another figure lurks behind a curtain on the right. The "lion" metaphor suggests a powerful political figure or authority being confronted in private quarters. The mirror imagery indicates vanity or self-examination. Without clearer identification of the specific individuals or historical context from 1888, the exact political situation remains unclear—it likely references a contemporary San Francisco political conflict or scandal involving someone of authority being challenged or scrutinized.