The Wasp — 1889 — page 127: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* satirical magazine shows a political cartoon titled "Playing at Revolution" (visible on left margin). The image depicts multiple figures in military and civilian dress appearing to tumble or fall chaotically, suggesting incompetence or farce. The text references "the other dodge kindhearted and cunning of an idle and quarrelsome set of boors," indicating mockery of specific political figures or groups attempting revolution. The cartoon likely satirizes a failed or bungled political uprising or coup attempt, portraying the participants as bumbling rather than threatening. The exaggerated poses and chaotic composition suggest the cartoonist viewed these events as comedic theater rather than serious political action. Without clearer identification of specific individuals or the exact historical moment, the precise targets remain unclear, though the overall message is contemptuous ridicule of revolutionary pretenders.