The Wasp — 1878 — page 272: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This political cartoon depicts a grotesque caricatured figure lying down, labeled "ARTESIAN WELLS" at the top. The figure appears to be a satirical representation of a person or entity associated with artesian well development. On the left side, small building/well structures are shown stacked vertically, suggesting multiple wells or development projects. The cartoon's point seems to be mocking artesian well drilling—likely a contentious development issue of the era. The exaggerated, unflattering physical caricature suggests criticism of someone promoting or profiting from these wells. The text at the bottom reads "NERVING THE WASP'S WEAPONS," though the specific political context and target remain unclear without additional historical documentation about *The Wasp* magazine's period and focus.