The Wasp — 1890 — page 358: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon satirizes opposition to a tariff bill. On the left, a demonic or villainous figure labeled "FRAUD" carries a large sack containing what appears to be a politician's head. The figure wears a collar labeled "FORTUNE," suggesting corrupt profiteering. On the right, a crowd of armed soldiers or militia members labeled "PROTECTION ARMY" march through a town, carrying shields marked with various names (unclear in reproduction). Rays of light beam down from above, creating a divine or prophetic atmosphere. The cartoon critiques the tariff bill as fraudulent and driven by corrupt financial interests disguised as patriotic "protection." The military imagery suggests the bill is being forced upon the populace through authoritarian means rather than democratic persuasion.