The Wasp — 1880 — page 327: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This satirical cartoon depicts a large bearded man's head (the central figure) being "washed" by various figures, with the caption "What Will He Do With Him?" The imagery suggests political corruption or manipulation. Labels visible include references to "Senator," "Congressman," and various monetary amounts ($500, $1.00), suggesting bribery or financial impropriety. The Capitol building appears in the background, establishing a Washington D.C. context. The smaller figures around the head appear to be politicians or operatives "washing" or laundering the central figure's reputation or influence. Without clearer identification of the specific individuals and historical date, the exact scandal remains unclear, but the cartoon clearly satirizes political corruption and the buying/selling of political influence in Congress during the Gilded Age or Progressive Era.