Calavera of Don Quijote (1943) by Jose Guadalupe Posada

Calavera of Don Quijote - Jose Guadalupe Posada - 1943

Artwork Information

TitleCalavera of Don Quijote
ArtistJose Guadalupe Posada
Date1943
MediumType metal engraving
Dimensions23.5 × 35 cm
Art MovementModernismo
Current LocationMetropolitan Museum of Art, New York City, NY, US
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About Calavera of Don Quijote

Jose Guadalupe Posada was a renowned Mexican illustrator and printmaker, who was born in 1851 and died in 1913. He was widely appreciated for his politically and culturally critiqued artworks. Some of his works are currently displayed at the San Andrés Chalchicomula Archaeological Museum. In addition, some of his work have been reproduced such as the ‘Calavera de Don Quijote’ which depicts popular themes from the time of the Porfirian period.

Calvera is a representation and critique of characters in Mexico during that time. His use of satirical illustrations often ridiculed traditional art forms which had an impact on upcoming generations. One particular creation is the ‘Calavera Depicting Contemporary Newspapers As Skeleton Cyclists’ (c. 1889-1895) that portray skeleton cyclist that stimulate themes associated with contemporary events and newspapers ranging from politics to entertainment news. This artwork displays a satirical critique of townspeople who only seemed to worry about trivial matters such as their clothes, rather than more important topics at hand.

Posada’s iconic works are still appreciated today, thanks to its evocative nature to challenges people’s opinions, thoughts, values and beliefs even after hundreds of years since it was created. His art not only entertain but also serves as a means of political and social critique globally, which demonstrates Posada’s ability to transcend time regardless of cultures or language barriers.

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