The Wasp — 1889 — page 30: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon contrasts two figures presented as Chinese immigrants. The left figure, depicted with exaggerated caricature features, wields weapons (sword and axe) in a violent pose—representing the "heathen" stereotype of the period. The right figure stands calm and composed in traditional dress. The caption "Look on this picture and then on that" invites comparison between the two representations. The title "The Angelic Heathen" appears to use irony, likely commenting on contemporary anti-Chinese sentiment and immigration debates in 1880s San Francisco. The satire may criticize either the xenophobic caricatures themselves or specific incidents involving Chinese immigrants. The exaggerated, dehumanizing visual style was typical of period satirical publications, though deeply offensive by modern standards.