La Catrina: A celebration of life and death in Mexico.

La Catrina is an iconic figure of Mexican culture associated with the Day of the Dead celebrations. This elegant skeletal figure dressed in high society attire is one of the most recognized symbols of Mexico around the world. The history of La Catrina dates back to the nineteenth century, when the famous Mexican engraver and cartoonist José Guadalupe Posada created this figure as a social critic, representing the vanity and elitism of the upper class of the time.

The Catrina has become a central element of the Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico. Every year, from October 31 to November 2, the streets fill with color and life as families honor their deceased loved ones.

During this festivity, altars are built and cemeteries are visited, where offerings of food, drink and objects that were appreciated by the deceased are placed. La Catrina, with her elegant outfit and distinctive makeup, becomes a symbol of life and death, reminding us that we are all equal in the face of the inevitable passage of time.

Putting on makeup like La Catrina is a popular tradition during the Day of the Dead festivities.
Makeup consists of painting the face white and creating intricate patterns of skulls, flowers and colorful details. This makeup process is a way to honor deceased loved ones and to connect with the cycle of life and death. By painting themselves as La Catrina, people show their respect and acceptance of death as a natural part of existence, celebrating the memory of those who are no longer physically present.