The Wasp — October 4, 1879 — page 4: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# Analysis of Page 163 from The Wasp This page contains an essay about barbers and barbering rather than political cartoons. The accompanying illustrations show barber shop scenes and a woman client. The text satirizes barbers as a profession, arguing they've historically held social importance despite being "useless" tradesmen. It traces barbering from ancient times through various cultures, noting how barbers in different nations—Spanish, German, English, and American—developed distinct styles and pretensions. The satire mocks barbers' self-importance and their stereotypical mannerisms, suggesting they inflate the significance of their work. The piece humorously critiques both barbers' affectations and clients who tolerate their behavior, presenting barbering as an industry built on unnecessary ritual and professional vanity rather than genuine skill.