The Wasp — 1878 — page 175: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This appears to be a satirical cartoon from *The Wasp* depicting various politicians and public figures as insects and aquatic creatures being controlled or manipulated. At the top, a cow holds what appears to be a control device labeled "SAFE," suggesting someone's financial interests are being protected. Below, several human heads with insect bodies are shown in submissive or grotesque poses, labeled with what appear to be city or state names including "WASHINGTON," "COMPOSE," and "MONROITARUS." The cartoon likely critiques political corruption or manipulation of public officials by special interests—a common *Wasp* theme. The transformation into insects suggests dehumanization or degradation of politicians through their complicity. However, without clearer OCR text and historical context, the specific political moment or figures referenced remains unclear.