The Wasp — 1881 — page 151: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The main cartoon depicts a figure in military or formal dress with exaggerated features—a long nose and prominent chin—carrying a rifle. Based on the publication date and context, this appears to be a political caricature, likely of a contemporary public figure, though the specific identity isn't stated in the visible text. The page is primarily devoted to "Bric-a-Brac," a humor column containing short satirical observations about California society: female lawyers, coyote attacks, theft in Oakland, and various social oddities. These are brief, biting jokes targeting local events and personalities rather than sustained narrative satire. The overall tone mocks California's social pretensions and absurdities.