The Wasp — February 21, 1880 — page 9: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

# "Scrubbing The" This political cartoon depicts a bearded man's head (presented as a large caricatured mask or portrait) being used as a scrubbing brush by numerous figures wielding it against a wagon wheel and ground. The title "Scrubbing The" (cut off mid-word) suggests the subject is being literally "scrubbed" or worn down through use and abuse. The style and presentation indicate this is satirical commentary on a public figure being figuratively "worn out" or destroyed through relentless criticism, labor, or political attack. The numerous small figures surrounding the scene emphasize collective action against this individual. Without the complete caption or publication date, the specific identity and historical context remain unclear, though this appears to target a prominent politician or public figure of the era.