The Wasp — 1877 — page 63: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* presents an architectural illustration rather than a political cartoon. It depicts the "Synagogue of Congregation Emanu-El, San Francisco (Erected, 5627.)" — the date 5627 refers to the Jewish calendar year. The image shows a striking Russian Orthodox or Eastern European-influenced architectural style, featuring distinctive onion domes and ornate detailing. The illustration appears to be documentation of San Francisco's Jewish community's significant public building, completed in the 19th century. Without accompanying satirical text or caricature on this page, the purpose is primarily informational rather than satirical. *The Wasp* may have included this as architectural interest for readers, or potentially as commentary on San Francisco's diverse religious institutions.