The Wasp — 1890 — page 472: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon critiques police corruption or ineffectiveness in San Francisco. The central figure, labeled "Captain Lee S" (likely Captain Lee of the police department), is depicted as a large, crowned authority figure holding a muscular boxer, symbolizing physical power or force. The cartoon's title asks: "Will the Police Department Take Hold With a Firm Grip?"—suggesting police are failing to control "pugilism" (prizefighting/boxing), which was illegal or disreputable at the time. The smaller figures (including what appears to be a vagrant or criminal) surrounding the captain represent lawlessness or disorder going unchecked. The satire implies the police leadership lacks the grip or competence to enforce order against illegal boxing operations flourishing in the city.