The Wasp — 1891 — page 286: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This *Wasp* cartoon from March 28, 1891, satirizes corruption at California's State Library. Three men's heads emerge from a large goblet labeled "STATE LIBRARY," depicted as a vessel being drained or emptied. The caption "LEAKS FROM THE STATE LIBRARY" is a visual pun: the goblet literally leaks, while "leaks" also refers to unauthorized disclosures of wrongdoing. The men appear to be library officials or politicians involved in embezzlement or misappropriation of state funds. The ornate goblet sits on a decorative base, suggesting something valuable is being wasted or stolen. This was typical *Wasp* style—using anthropomorphized objects and surreal imagery to expose public corruption and hold officials accountable through ridicule.