The Wasp — 1888 — page 17: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a satirical cartoon from *The Wasp*, likely from the 1890s based on style. The central figure appears to be a caricatured politician or public figure riding an elephant labeled "REPUBLIC," while a well-dressed woman sits atop him. A man in military dress stands nearby observing. The elephant traditionally symbolizes the Republican Party in American political cartoons. The satire seems to mock how political power is being wielded—suggesting the rider (likely a political figure) is being controlled or manipulated, while the woman may represent corrupt influence or special interests. The presence of military figures on the right suggests commentary on militarism or military influence in politics. Without clearer identifying labels or visible text, the specific political event or figures remain unclear, though this appears to critique Republican Party politics and institutional corruption of the era.