The Wasp — 1879 — page 104: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This is a **title page/cover** of *The San Francisco Illustrated Wasp* (Vol. 3, No. 133), dated February 15, 1879, priced at 10 cents. The central image shows a **portrait of Rose Eytinge**, identified at the bottom as performing at the California Theatre. She wears elaborate period costume with ornate pearl jewelry, a beaded headdress, and decorated shoulder piece—likely depicting a theatrical character or role. The page itself is **not a political cartoon** but rather a cover illustration featuring a theatrical performer. Without additional context about Eytinge's specific role or contemporary relevance to San Francisco society in 1879, the precise satirical intent remains unclear. The elaborate, somewhat exaggerated costume styling suggests possible theatrical or dramatic commentary, but the exact point of satire cannot be definitively determined from this image alone.