The Wasp — 1890 — page 190: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page contains two main satirical sections: **"Town Topics"** (left, with bird illustrations): Mocks verbose fiddle-playing and "humbug about fiddlers," suggesting pretentious musical affectation in society. The satire targets wealthy patrons who elevate mediocre performers. **"Politics"** (right, with dove illustration): Discusses California's gubernatorial race. Steve White is characterized as an ideal Democratic candidate, though party managers supposedly won't nominate him due to his independent streak. The piece satirizes political kingmakers who reject principled candidates, preferring controllable nominees. **Bottom section**: Notes on San Francisco's Art Association fundraising and bank commissioners examining city banks. **Silhouette illustrations**: "A Friendly Contest" depicts wrestling or athletic competition (source credited to Nature). The overall tone critiques both artistic pretension and political manipulation in late-19th-century California.