The Wasp — 1889 — page 66: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a theatrical "rehearsal" with exaggerated caricatures of men with animal and monstrous features performing for an audience. The title "REHEARSAL" suggests these figures are practicing or preparing for some public performance or political event. The grotesque characterizations—including what appear to be ape-like and simian features on several figures—indicate this is likely mocking particular political or social figures of the era through dehumanizing caricature, a common (if offensive) tactic in 19th-century satirical magazines. Without clearer identifying labels or additional context, I cannot definitively identify the specific individuals or political situation being referenced. The cartoon appears critical of whoever these figures represent, suggesting fraudulence or theatrical artificiality in their public personas.