The Wasp, 1879-11-08 · page 2 of 18
The Wasp — November 8, 1879 — page 2: what you’re looking at
What you’re looking at
# Analysis of The San Francisco Illustrated Wasp, November 8, 1879 This satirical cartoon depicts a large Jester or fool-like figure surrounded by smaller figures. The caption "Fisherman Luck Manages Division—Two For You Two, And Two For Me Too—Fair Play Is A Jewel" suggests commentary on unfair resource distribution or political favoritism. The central figure's exaggerated costume and prominent mustache, combined with the reference to "division" and unequal allocation, appears to critique a political or business leader engaged in corrupt dealings. The smaller figures around him—possibly representing different constituencies or interest groups—receive unequal portions while the central authority figure takes the larger share. The exact identities remain unclear without additional historical context, but the satire clearly targets hypocrisy around fair dealing and honest governance.