The Wasp — 1881 — page 150: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This February 1881 *Wasp* cartoon depicts a bearded man (likely a Chinese immigrant, based on period caricature style) struggling with a large serpent labeled "SANDWITCH" and what appears to be a demon or dragon figure. He holds a rake and shovel, suggesting agricultural or laboring work. A burning building smolders in the background. The cartoon appears to satirize anti-Chinese sentiment prevalent in 1880s California. The "sandwich" reference and chaotic imagery likely allude to labor conflicts or Chinese worker exploitation. The serpent and demon imagery reflects xenophobic stereotypes common in this era's political cartooning. Without clearer context from surrounding *Wasp* content, the specific "unexpected developments" referenced remain unclear, though the cartoon clearly expresses hostile attitudes toward Chinese immigrants.