The Wasp — 1877 — page 24: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is the cover illustration of *The San Francisco Illustrated Wasp* from August 11, 1877. The cartoon satirizes a contemporary dispute, titled "The War of the Ring." The image depicts several bearded men in 1870s dress engaged in conflict around a large shield or ring. Labels visible include "Argonaut," "Chronicle," and "Acid"—likely referring to San Francisco newspapers competing for dominance or influence. The figures appear to be journalists or newspaper editors battling over control of local discourse, armed with various implements. Small demons or imps at the bottom suggest malicious intent underlying the "war." The satire criticizes the bitter rivalry between competing San Francisco publications of the era, portraying their conflicts as petty and destructive to civic harmony.