The Wasp — 1888 — page 312: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page features a portrait of **General Russell A. Alger of Michigan**, labeled at the bottom. The decorative header reads "THE WASP" in elaborate Victorian typography. The portrait shows Alger with a distinctive long, flowing beard, wearing formal Victorian attire with a bow tie. Behind him are symbolic vignettes: tall redwood trees on the left (representing California/the West) and a church tower on the right. Without additional context from the magazine's text, the specific satirical point remains unclear. However, *The Wasp* was known for political commentary, so this was likely either promoting or critiquing Alger's political positions or candidacy. The natural and religious imagery suggests themes about land, development, or moral/civic leadership, but the exact satirical intent requires the accompanying article text.