The Wasp — 1881 — page 238: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This appears to be a satirical narrative comic about a criminal named Barry, likely wanted for a crime. The sequential panels depict: 1. **Top**: A cemetery scene, establishing a dark tone 2. **Middle**: Barry on horseback being pursued, with a "$1000 Reward" notice 3. **Court scene**: Barry facing justice indoors 4. **Bottom**: "The Only Hanging in Prospect" — depicting Barry's execution by hanging The satire critiques either Barry's crimes or the legal system's response. The large profile on the left appears to be a notable figure of the era, possibly related to the case or its political implications. Without specific historical context identifying Barry and the incident, the cartoon's exact political message remains unclear, though it seems to mock or condemn a particular criminal case and its outcome.