The Wasp — 1878 — page 63: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This engraving depicts a satirical scene of cherubs and putti engaged in brewery and alcohol-related activities. Visible text on barrels and bottles identifies German breweries including "Adelberg Brewery" and various German beer brand names (some reading "Wurzburg," "Kulmbacher," and similar). The scene appears to satirize German beer culture and brewing dominance, likely targeting German immigration and influence in American industry during the late 19th century. The chaotic, indulgent composition—with cherubs handling brewing equipment, bottles, and barrels—suggests mockery of both excessive alcohol consumption and German commercial enterprise. The theatrical curtain framing the scene emphasizes this as staged satire. Without the magazine's date and full text, the precise political target remains unclear, though it likely critiques German-American brewing monopolies or immigrant economic power.