The Wasp — 1879 — page 354: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page is **not a political cartoon**—it's a literary excerpt from what appears to be an epic poem. The header reads "CANTO VI" and "CANTO VII," presenting verse passages about Death's proclamation and a response from Bethlehem. The ornate decorative border, featuring classical figures and a prominent bell at the top (labeled "THE BELL OF PROGRESS"), frames the text. The elaborate engraving style is typical of 19th-century literary publications. Without additional context about *The Wasp's* original publication date or the poem's authorship, I cannot identify the specific literary work or its satirical intent. This appears to be a showcase of artistic typography and classical illustration rather than political satire.