The Wasp — 1889 — page 172: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon satirizes corrupt political patronage and corporate exploitation. The scene depicts working-class men attempting to exchange goods—lamb, sugar, cattle—for political favors or profit. The signs reading "Patronage for the Million," "Screws Put Upon Corporations," and "Dressed Lamb for Sale Cheap" suggest politicians and businessmen are literally commodifying public offices and resources. The men in hats (likely political operatives or corrupt officials) oversee the exchange, while workers conduct base-level trades. The caption notes "we've got a good hold on the rural trade as well as the city," indicating systematic corruption spanning both regions. The satire criticizes how political "patronage"—jobs and favors distributed for political loyalty—has become commercialized, turning government positions into merchandise rather than merit-based appointments.