The Wasp — 1879 — page 464: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This engraving depicts a royal wedding ceremony, likely from the late 19th century. The image shows elaborately dressed clergy and nobility gathered around the bride and groom, with ceremonial regalia prominent throughout. The text describes the "brilliant sun and sky" of Madrid and emphasizes the "gala appearance" of the event, noting that white pigeons, flowers, and gold decorations adorned the processional route. The satire appears gentle—*The Wasp* celebrates the pageantry and ceremonial grandeur rather than mocking it. The detailed description of the "good, pious, modest, virtuous, royally noble Queen" suggests this piece presents the marriage as a significant state occasion worthy of elaborate illustration and respectful commentary.