The Wasp — 1888 — page 118: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon from *The Wasp* depicts a scene with allegorical and political figures. On the left stands an elderly bearded man (appearing to represent authority or established power) wielding what looks like a scythe or curved blade, while holding a small figure. On the right, a portly man labeled "CABERNET" sits elevated on a pedestal, smiling smugly. The title "THE MONEY!" suggests the cartoon critiques wealth concentration or financial corruption. The dynamic between the elevated, satisfied "Cabernet" figure and the threatening figure on the left implies conflict over economic resources or the satirical commentary on how money and power corrupt institutions. Without additional historical context, the specific identities and precise political reference remain unclear, though this appears to target late 19th or early 20th-century economic inequalities.