The Wasp — 1890 — page 299: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is primarily **society gossip and news**, not political satire. The central illustration, captioned "THOSE DEAR, DECEPTIVE, FASCINATING HATS!", depicts fashionable women in conversation and shows the era's elaborate millinery—apparently the joke is that expensive, decorative hats conceal women's true intentions or character. The text discusses California society figures visiting Europe, their health conditions, romantic engagements, and social activities. Notable mentions include Mrs. John Corning at Naples and various San Francisco residents abroad. The "Society Gossip" section addresses an exercise controversy at an exclusive club and announces military volunteer engagements and a notable wedding. This reflects the magazine's function as a **society column with light satirical commentary** on wealthy Californians' leisure activities and pretensions.