The Wasp — 1880 — page 94: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This page from *The Wasp* covers exhibits at what appears to be a Mechanics' Fair (a trade/industrial exposition). The satirical commentary mocks various exhibitors and their displays: The text criticizes the dull machinery exhibits and praises more interesting displays like furniture and whips/harnesses. It ridicules patent medicine vendors advertising their products as cures, noting mothers are supposedly teaching infants to use them—an obvious exaggeration mocking false medical claims. The illustrations show fair-goers examining various exhibits, including the bottom cartoon labeled "The Candy Factory, Molasses and Music," depicting crowds around what appears to be a candy-making demonstration or attraction. The humor targets exhibitors' poor presentation skills and dubious product claims typical of late 19th-century trade fairs.