The Wasp — 1879 — page 588: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical illustration depicts three figures in water with the caption "BLUBBERS CLAMORING ABOUT NOTHING." The text mentions "Torrey" was born in a duck pond and fed on "clams and blubber," attributed to "Rev. I.S. Kalloch" regarding "the manner of his feeding." The cartoon appears to mock political or religious figures of 1880s San Francisco through crude caricature and body-shaming humor. Without clearer identification of the specific individuals, the precise political context remains unclear. However, the reference to Kalloch (likely a San Francisco minister or public figure) suggests this targets local personalities or controversies. The aquatic setting and "blubbers" pun indicate ridicule through physical appearance mockery typical of period satirical publications.