Illustration of a skeleton wearing a wide-brimmed hat adorned with flowers and feathers, in a traditional Day of the Dead style.

José Guadalupe Posada

Mexican Printmaker (1852–1913)

A Mexican artist and engraver famous for his iconic depictions of skeletons and skulls (called calaveras), like La Calavera Catrina. They have become symbols of Mexican culture, especially with Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

What is a calavera? This video answers that question by looking at a famous print by the Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada that shows skeletons riding bicycles.

Posada’s skeleton images, often accompanied by satirical poems, made people laugh while reflecting on life’s truths. "La Catrina" became an icon of Mexican culture.