The Wasp — 1877 — page 358: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical engraving depicts the arrival of 1877 as a skeletal, grim specter—personified as Death or hardship—towering over the previous year. The large "NEW YEAR" text dominates the composition, while a "Calendar of 1877" visible in the image suggests anticipatory dread about the coming twelve months. Below, various figures—including what appear to be workers, a wealthy woman with a barrel (possibly representing commerce or excess), and common people—react with alarm or resignation to this ominous visitor. The left side shows horses labeled "AUSTIN" and "LAVIN[?]," possibly referencing specific political or business figures of that era. The overall message appears satirical commentary on economic anxiety or political turmoil anticipated for 1877, though the specific references remain unclear without additional historical context.