The man behind “La Catrina”

José Guadalupe Posada

was a Mexican artist and the creator behind one of the national icons, “ La Catrina ,” who defined Mexican caricature with a grim smile.

Day of the dead: Traditional celebrations around Mexico.

He was born in Aguascalientes on February 2, 1852, as since he was a young man he began to show a talent for art and a critical ingenuity. His satirical drawings caused him a fair share of troubles in his community, the reason why he moved to Guanajuato .

There, Posada opened up a workshop and taught lessons on lithography. In 1875 , he married María de Jesús Vela and in 1888 he moved to Mexico City , according to the information provided by the Aguascalientes official website.

Once in Mexico City , he had no shortage of work and collaborated frequently with several media of the time, such as " La Patria Ilustrada ," " Revisa de México ," " El Ahuizote ," and others.

His works reflect a mind ahead of his time. Posada was in favor of progress and had strong nationalist sentiments. He was a fierce critic of the Government and liked to portray aspects of every-day life.

The Mexican Catrina—An evolving tradition.

Unfortunately, his fame didn't spare him from poverty, in which he died on January 20, 1913 , in Mexico City . His body was never reclaimed and was buried in a mass grave. However, his legacy has forever shaped Mexican culture and traditions.

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