The Wasp — 1889 — page 187: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a figure wearing American flag regalia (shield with stars) surrounded by armed, elaborately dressed military/political figures in a procession. A banner labeled "PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE" appears above, suggesting commentary on presidential authority or ambition. The cartoon's title "A Gall" indicates criticism of audacity or presumption. The central figure appears to be either a president or presidential aspirant, portrayed as pompous given the theatrical medieval/Renaissance costumes and exaggerated military pageantry. The satire likely mocks excessive executive power, pretentious leadership, or a specific president's grandiose manner of addressing Congress or the nation. Without a visible date or clearer identification of the specific figures, the exact historical event remains uncertain, though the imagery suggests 19th-century American political controversy.