The Wasp, 1891 · page 492 of 612
The Wasp — 1891 — page 492: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
This page is primarily **advertising and social commentary**, not a political cartoon. The left column contains "Social Chatter—Continued," discussing fashion trends and gender dynamics. Notable is the critique of women blindly following fashion trends that make them look ridiculous, contrasting this with men's superior judgment. The right side features various **advertisements** for San Francisco businesses: Pacific Bank, Dreed's flour, John Wieland's Lager Beer, Champagne Eclipse, and a tailor shop. The social commentary reflects **late 19th-century gender attitudes**—mocking women's fashion choices while praising men's rationality. The piece also includes a brief anecdote about young people's prospects, suggesting satirical commentary on courtship and social mobility of the era. No specific political figures or events are referenced.