The Wasp — 1879 — page 219: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts five anthropomorphic dogs in formal attire, appearing anxious or distressed. The caption reads: "When dog watches dog, dogged honesty is the result." The image appears to be political satire about oversight and accountability—specifically mocking the idea that self-policing among officials (represented as "dogs watching dogs") produces honest governance. The irony is clear: the dogs look guilty and nervous despite supposedly watching each other, suggesting that such internal oversight is ineffective or hypocritical. One figure crouches submissively in the foreground while others stand tensely above. There are what appear to be weapons visible, adding menace to the scene. Without additional context about The Wasp's publication date and specific political figures of that era, the exact targets remain unclear, though this likely critiques a particular government scandal or corrupt administration.