In today's interconnected world, the digital space has woven together threads of diverse cultures and traditions, creating a tapestry of shared experiences and newfound understanding. This virtual renaissance has ignited a curiosity and enlightenment that transcends borders, allowing people from all walks of life to explore and celebrate the rich heritage of distant lands.
One such tradition around this time of year is the "Catrina". Who is Catrina and where did this morbid but artistic and beautiful Morticia originate from? Well it's part of a Mexican tradition and it has no connection to the fictitious Halloween although it is celebrated the day after. (Stay tuned for the next blog post for fascinating history) It's a day for celebrating our beloved deceased.
Calavera Catrina
In the early 20th century Mexican political cartoonist Jose Guadalupe Posada etched a figure of death dressed in fancy French garb intending it as a social commentary on Mexican society’s emulation of European sophistication. “Todos somos calaveras”, “we are all skeletons”. Underneath our manmade trappings, we are all the same. Posada named his stylized skeleton dressed in a large feminine bourgeois hat, “Catrina” slang for the “the rich”.
In 1947 Mexican artist Diego Rivera added color to Catrina, thus awakening her spirit. Today the Calavera Catrina, or elegant skull, is the Day the Dead’s most ubiquitous symbol.
Now in these historical renderings the Catrina is wearing a very fancy hat as it was customary of high society in the earl 1900's. Today, hats are not required and headpieces can take any form or shape. It could be a crown of marigold flowers, or a veil or no headpiece.
Stay tuned for more on this beautiful tradition!
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