The Wasp — 1891 — page 64: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This *Wasp* cartoon from July 11, 1891 satirizes Charles A. Dana (the bearded figure on the left), editor of the New York Sun. The caption references Dana's proposal that walking on stilts could reduce "superfluous fat." The massive figure on stilts represents this absurd fitness idea being sent "to the White House"—likely critiquing Dana's influence on public discourse or mocking a suggestion he actually made. The smaller man on the right observes skeptically. Visible signs reference "Free Trade" and "Reform," suggesting the cartoon also addresses Dana's political positions. The satire mocks both Dana's credibility as a public advisor and the ridiculous nature of the proposal itself. The Capitol dome in the background emphasizes the political dimension.