The Wasp — 1893 — page 447: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This engraving depicts a classical female figure (likely representing Justice or Law itself) in flowing robes, holding scales and a sword. The accompanying caption reads "What Justice shows of domestic life among th[e]..." (text cut off). The satire appears to critique the legal system's treatment of domestic affairs—likely marriage, divorce, or family disputes. By portraying Justice as an idealized classical figure while discussing the messy reality of "domestic life," the cartoon suggests irony: that the legal system presents itself with noble principles but fails to deliver fair justice in actual household matters. The specific domestic grievance referenced is unclear from the visible text, but *The Wasp's* satirical intent targets the gap between legal ideals and practical outcomes for ordinary people's family problems.