Discover Posada's skeletons and skulls made for Day of the Dead

Have you ever imagined seeing skeletons riding bicycles or wearing big, fancy hats? Dive into the fascinating world of skeletons and skulls, or "calaveras," created by the renowned Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. One of Posada’s most iconic creations is "La Calavera Catrina," a stylish skeleton lady with a broad smile and a grand hat adorned with feathers and lace. Artworks like “La Catrina” were made for Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, a celebration that honors those who have passed away. But Posada produced art beyond the Day of the Dead, too.

Born in 1852, José Guadalupe Posada had a passion for art from a young age. He mastered various printmaking techniques, creating over 20,000 images that illustrated life's hardships and humor. Posada’s art was for everyday people, making his prints accessible and relatable, even to those who couldn’t read.

In his time, Posada was known for making satirical prints that poked fun at politicians and societal elites. These prints appeared in newspapers and broadsides—large, single-sided printed sheets similar to posters. Posada’s "calaveras," or skeletons engaging in everyday activities, became especially famous. These skeletal figures play a significant role in Día de los Muertos, celebrated on November 2nd when Mexican families honor their deceased loved ones with offerings on altars known as ofrendas.

Posada’s skeleton images, often accompanied by satirical poems, made people laugh while reflecting on life’s truths. His legacy lives on, inspiring countless artists and bringing joy and reflection to those who view his work. "La Catrina" became an icon of Mexican culture, especially after painter Diego Rivera included her in his mural, "Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda," in 1947.

Watch to learn more about Posada’s prints!

CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction to José Guadalupe Posada and his calaveras
0:38 Brief biography of Posada and his printmaking
1:24 Posada’s cartoons in newspapers and broadsides
2:18 Calaveras, or skulls and skeletons
2:41 Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)
3:15 Calaveras of cyclists
3:51 La Calavera Catrina, Posada’s most famous image
4:56 Diego Rivera’s Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda
5:12 Posada’s legacy

Main artworks:
José Guadalupe Posada, La Catrina Calavera, zincograph on green paper,
13 3/4 x 9 7/16 in. (35 x 24 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
José Guadalupe Posada, broadsheet of Skeletons riding bicycles, c. 1895,
type-metal engraving and letterpress, 23 5/8 x 15 3/4 in. (60 x 40 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

LEARN MORE
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