The Wasp — 1889 — page 169: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts four elderly gentlemen in formal dress standing in a California landscape. The caption reads "CALIFORNIA: Gentlemen, these—" though the sentence appears incomplete. The cartoon is signed by Walter (likely Thomas Walter, a prominent Wasp cartoonist of the era). The four figures' exaggerated facial features—particularly their long beards and stern expressions—suggest they represent specific California political or business leaders, though the incomplete caption prevents certain identification. The "nearsighted" reference in the title implies these figures lack vision or perception regarding some contemporary issue. The mountainous background and sparse landscape emphasize California's geography, suggesting the satire concerns state-level politics or policy. Without the full caption, the specific target remains unclear.