The Wasp — 1888 — page 240: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts well-dressed gentlemen in a chaotic interior scene, seemingly engaged in destructive behavior. The title suggests criticism of zealous reformers, likely referring to temperance and prohibition advocates of the late 19th/early 20th century. The men appear to be destroying bottles and vessels—possibly alcohol—with tools and their feet, while a figure in the background holds a "Salvation Army" sign. The scattered debris and frantic poses suggest the cartoon ridicules reformers as destructive vandals rather than principled advocates. The satire criticizes the aggressive tactics of prohibition and moral-reform movements, portraying their methods as chaotic and their adherents as sanctimonious troublemakers causing more harm than good. The "bounty" likely references rewards offered for enforcement of reform measures.