The thundering skeleton of the modern bells

About this artwork

The thundering skeleton of the modern bells is a zincograph and letterpress print by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada, created in 1905 and published by Antonio Vanegas Arroyo. The work exemplifies the calavera tradition of satirical broadside prints that became synonymous with Mexican popular culture and Day of the Dead celebrations. The print depicts a dancing skeleton surrounded by text, calling out the misdeeds of various tradespeople and professionals in Mexico City. The verses relate t...

Art Historical Context

In the heart of Mexico City's bustling Zócalo stands the Metropolitan Cathedral, and in 1905, its tower gained new "modern bells" and a clock that chimed with thunderous authority. José Guadalupe Posada captured this moment in his satirical zincograph and letterpress print, *The Thundering Skeleton of the Modern Bells*, published by Antonio Vanegas Arroyo. A dancing skeleton dominates the vibrant orange paper, boldly outlined in Posada's signature expressive linework, as it scolds tradespeople and professionals for their misdeeds—demanding they mend their ways through witty verses. This calavera, or "skeleton" broadside, exemplifies the popular Mexican tradition of mocking the powerful during Day of the Dead festivities. Posada, a master of the penny press, blended indigenous imagery with European zincography—a relief printing technique on metal plates—and letterpress typography to make art affordable and accessible to working-class audiences. His thousands of prints tackled social issues with sharp satire, turning everyday gripes into cultural touchstones. Today, Posada's skeletal motifs echo in Día de los Muertos celebrations worldwide and inspired the Mexican Muralism movement. At 15 13/16 × 11 13/16 inches, this striking piece from The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Elisha Whittelsey Collection invites us to laugh at our flaws, much as it did over a century ago.

About the Artist

José Guadalupe Posada · 1852–1913

José Guadalupe Posada (1852-1913) was a Mexican printmaker and engraver who revolutionized popular art and created some of the most iconic images in Mexican culture. Working primarily with publisher Antonio Vanegas Arroyo, he produced over 20,000 images during his career—inexpensive broadsheets sold for a penny on colored paper that made his art accessible to even the poorest workers. He transform...