The Wasp — 1879 — page 172: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a man labeled "Zealous Hunter" attempting to capture "Female Roosters at the Cal. Theatre." The image shows him juggling or struggling to control multiple figures with rooster heads—likely a commentary on theatrical scandals or female performers in San Francisco's California Theatre. The satire appears to criticize either: - Overzealous law enforcement or morality crusaders targeting female entertainers - Scandalous behavior among female performers themselves - The absurdity of efforts to regulate theater performers' conduct The "rooster" imagery suggests mockery—making fools of those involved. Without additional historical context about specific 1879 California Theatre incidents, the precise target remains unclear, but the cartoon clearly ridicules someone's aggressive pursuit of female theater workers.