The Wasp — 1889 — page 445: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a portrait engraving of R.W. Waterman identified as Governor of California. The image shows a bearded man in formal 19th-century attire within a circular frame, decorated with botanical elements (vines and foliage) on the left and right sides. Without additional satirical text or commentary visible on this page, the image appears to be a straightforward portrait rather than a political cartoon. *The Wasp* was known for sharp satire, but this particular engraving—credited to Schmidt Label & Lith Co., S.F.—seems to function as a formal illustration or tribute rather than mockery. The decorative botanical framing suggests this may be from a commemorative or biographical section of the magazine.