The Wasp — 1892 — page 351: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page of satirical cartoons mocks theatrical figures and productions of the era. The top panel shows "Manager Stockwell's latest success" at a theater, likely satirizing a particular impresario's ambitious or controversial production. Other panels reference specific theatrical ventures: "The Bat" at the Troll, "Snowed Under" at the Alcazar, "The Runaway" at Bush Street, and "Mr. McFee of Dublin" arriving at the California theater. The Baldwin box office cartoon ("The Call continues to criticize the Baldwin") appears to critique ongoing public debate about a particular theater or production. The humor depends on recognizing these specific San Francisco theatrical references and personalities now largely forgotten. The cartoons employ exaggeration and physical caricature typical of early 20th-century satirical illustration.