The Wasp — 1890 — page 481: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a satirical cartoon from *The Wasp* magazine depicting a scene titled "Romeo (English)" and "Juliet (The Nomination)." The cartoon shows a figure on the right (appearing to represent England or British interests) gazing romantically at a ghostly female figure labeled with text including "POPULARITY" — representing "Juliet" as the nomination prize. A ornate candelabra sits on a table in the foreground. The Shakespeare reference to Romeo and Juliet suggests doomed romance. The satire appears to mock British political ambitions or romantic/political courtship around some nomination (likely related to late 19th-century American politics or imperial interests). The "burnt out" candles referenced in the caption suggest fading hope or exhausted efforts in pursuing this political goal. The exact historical context remains unclear without additional dating information.