La Calavera de la Catrina

Jose Guadalupe Posada
1913
Mexican Art
Private collection

"La Calavera de la Catrina" by José Guadalupe Posada, created in 1913, is one of the most iconic images in Mexican art, representing the figure of death in a satirical and culturally resonant manner. The artwork, a zinc etching, features a skeletal figure dressed in elegant attire, symbolizing the idea that death is the great equalizer, affecting all people regardless of their social status. Posada's Catrina has become a central symbol in Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations, embodying a blend of humor, cultural critique, and reflection on mortality. This piece is held in a private collection and continues to influence Mexican art and popular culture, serving as a poignant reminder of the cultural significance of death in Mexican traditions.