The Wasp — 1887 — page 72: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon from *The Wasp* magazine depicts a beach scene titled "Population," likely commenting on immigration or population growth in late 19th-century America. The cartoon shows multiple adult male figures of varying ethnic appearances supervising children in the water. The exaggerated facial features and caricatured styles suggest ethnic stereotyping common to the period. One figure on the left rides a fantastical sea creature, while another on the right stands prominently, appearing portly and well-dressed. The satire likely critiques concerns about rapid population growth, foreign immigration, or the "breeding" of immigrant communities—anxieties prevalent in Gilded Age America. The absurdist imagery of the sea creature reinforces the fantastical, mocking tone. The specific political targets remain unclear without additional context.