The Wasp — 1894 — page 253: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical magazine page contains multiple short commentaries and illustrations mocking San Francisco society and politics circa the 1890s-1900s. The main cartoons satirize: 1. **A fishing party disaster** where socialite ladies' fishing outing ends in comedic mishap at Market Street dock. 2. **Democratic politics**: References to the Democrats' rooster emblem and mockery of their candidates and strategy. 3. **Dolph Sutro**: A political figure who denies mayoral ambitions while his party actively campaigns for him—satire of political hypocrisy. 4. **James Brett Stokes**: Praised for his equestrian abilities and walking style, suggesting he's a society figure of note. 5. **Cycling clubs**: Critique that only wealthy "muscular-looking fellows" can afford cycling, making it an exclusive activity rather than democratic recreation. The tone is consistently irreverent toward local politicians and the pretensions of wealthy society.