The Wasp — 1893 — page 501: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* (a San Francisco satirical publication) features a main cartoon depicting three anthropomorphic horses in human clothing discussing horse racing. The caption references "Cholly Bangtail" and other horses, suggesting satire about corrupt or disreputable figures in the racing world ("Standard Trotter, a vulgar fellah, drooped from society of late"). The cartoon mocks the pretensions of racing society—these animals dressed as gentlemen represent actual racing personalities or types being ridiculed. Below are advertisements including one for *The Wasp* itself ("THE BEST WEEKLY MEDIUM ON THE PACIFIC COAST"), plus ads for bicycles, a tailor, and other goods. The page satirizes both horse racing culture and upper-class hypocrisy through animal caricature, a common technique in period satirical magazines.