The Wasp — 1891 — page 256: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This engraving depicts a classical female allegorical figure—likely representing California or "Spring Valley" (visible on her headband)—toasting with wine glasses. The figure wears Greco-Roman costume with ornamental belt and carries a dark cloak, positioned before a landscape with a domed building (possibly representing civic infrastructure). The satirical point appears to concern water access and rates. The partially visible OCR text references "water at reasonable rates, and plenty of it!" and "no trouble from me," suggesting this cartoon critiques Spring Valley Water Company's pricing practices or service reliability—likely a contentious public utility issue in California. The allegorical female figure represents the region/state celebrating or ironically toasting improved water conditions or corporate generosity.