The Wasp — 1889 — page 28: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon contrasts two figures with exaggerated Asian features. The left figure, depicted as violent and menacing, wields weapons with a fierce expression. The right figure appears docile and submissive, dressed in traditional clothing. The title "The Angelic Heathen" and caption "Look on this picture and then on that" suggest the cartoon is making a commentary on Chinese immigrants in California—likely comparing Chinese laborers' portrayed "docility" with fears about violence or "heathen" behavior. This reflects late-1880s anti-Chinese sentiment, when The Wasp frequently published xenophobic content. The cartoon appears designed to stoke fears about Chinese immigrants, though the specific political context or incident referenced remains unclear without additional documentation.