The Wasp — 1881 — page 311: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

The illustrated figure on this page appears to be a caricatured politician or public figure dressed in elaborate period costume, carrying what looks like a money bag or satchel. Based on the surrounding text's discussion of San Francisco municipal politics, the City Hall construction project, and competing political factions (Republicans and Democrats), this likely represents a corrupt official or political operator profiting from public works spending. The satire targets mismanagement of the City Hall construction fund—money diverted to "private advantage," kickbacks, and the "deputy system" that allegedly allowed politicians to avoid actual work while collecting salaries. The exaggerated costume and accessories mock the pretensions of these self-enriching officials.