The Wasp — 1879 — page 516: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* contains two satirical scenes with religious and social commentary: **Top panel (numbered 3):** A bishop or high church official (wearing mitre and robes) addresses a gathering of indigenous or primitive peoples, some seated, others standing. This appears to satirize Christian missionary work and colonial conversion efforts, likely critiquing the Church's role in imposing European religion on non-Western populations. **Bottom panel:** Multiple caricatured figures in various costumes and formal dress (including top hats and period clothing) appear to be engaging in revelry or carnival-like behavior. The contrast between the religious authority above and this scene of apparent excess below suggests satire about hypocrisy—the gap between religious preaching and actual moral conduct. The ornamental staff on the left suggests ecclesiastical authority. Overall, the page critiques institutional religion's contradictions and colonial expansion.