The Wasp — 1890 — page 170: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical page contains multiple short pieces mocking contemporary political and social figures. The "Photosplaphia" cartoon depicts what appears to be a Democratic County Committee scandal involving figures named Buckley and Hays—likely San Francisco politicians involved in convention delegate disputes. The main illustration shows two men discussing killing a pig for their "silver wedding," satirizing marital relationships through crude humor. Other pieces reference: King Malietoa of Samoa's cricket ban; Russian Interior Ministry religious persecution; and a stolen elephant from St. Joseph's circus. The "Peter" anecdote mocks a gossipy society figure obsessed with material wealth and social status. **Context**: The Wasp targeted local San Francisco politics, international news, and urban society scandals through biting humor and caricature typical of 1880s-90s American satire magazines.