The Wasp — 1890 — page 452: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a bearded man holding what appears to be a monkey or ape-like creature labeled as a "baby." The caption reads: "BLAINE TO SALISBURY: YOU CANNOT FRIGHTEN THIS BABY WITH YOUR NOISE!" The cartoon appears to reference James G. Blaine (the bearded figure) and British Prime Minister Lord Salisbury. The "baby" likely represents American interests or policy that Blaine is protectively holding. The satire suggests that despite British intimidation or threats ("noise"), the American position remains unmoved and strong. The imagery and composition are typical of 1890s American political cartooning, using animal caricature and domestic metaphor to critique international relations and American political figures.