The Empty Cradle (ca. 1871) by Manuel OcaranzaColección Blaisten
In Mexico, the tragic experience of death is felt with great sorrow. However, the way in which those who passed are remembered differs from place to place.
She mourns the loss of her child, which is why this piece is called The Empty Crib
Enrique Gonzalez's portrait (ca. 1865) by Hermenegildo BustosColección Blaisten
This isn't only the portrait of a child. In the 19th Century, families would commission the portraits of dead children as a way to remember them. This an example.
Synthesis (1939) by Roberto MontenegroColección Blaisten
The deep prehispanic roots in Mexico allow death to be seen as a rebirth.
In order for there to be life, there must be death.
Death (ca. 1940) by Manuel González SerranoColección Blaisten
Manuel Gonzalez Serrano shows us his vision of a preying death, which we are exposed to in our daily lives.
The Three Parcae (1936) by Manuel Rodríguez LozanoColección Blaisten
Manuel Rodríguez Lozano decided to reinterpret the Greek myths to represent death. The three crones are women who would weave the thread of life and they'd when it would be cut.
The Noose (1947) by María IzquierdoColección Blaisten
María Izquierdo shows us the hangman's noose.
as a symbol of death, and our imagination takes flight in this scene.
Zapata (1945) by María IzquierdoColección Blaisten
Here lies a hero in his grave accompanied by his faithful companions.
Dancers (1935) by José Chávez MoradoColección Blaisten
In Mexico there are different dances and parties surrounding death. Death is seen with a comedic tone as well.
This is a representation of a dance in Guerrero, Mexico.
Girl with Taco (1947) by Rosa RolandaColección Blaisten
In popular parties it is common to see the image of death in a playful way.
Hommage to Frida Kahlo (1987/1987) by Rodrigo PimentelColección Blaisten
This is an homage to Frida Kahlo, as she is remembered by her struggles for workers' rights and her bushy eyebrows.
Offering (1940) by Manuel Gonzalez SerranoColección Blaisten
They Day of the Dead is celebrated on a yearly basis by placing an offering to the dead where the favorite dishes of the deceased are displayed.
This is the traditional bread prepared to commemorate the day of the dead. The dough ball in the center represents the skull and the four protruding sides represent the bones.
Crystals (1956) by Alfonso MichelColección Blaisten
Michel also represented an altar for the dead of the dead. Titled, Crystals, it emphasizes the fragility of life.
El Coco (ca. 1955) by Emilio Baz ViaudColección Blaisten
Emilio Baz Vlaud shows us how death and life in Mexico live in a harmonious dance. Death is inextricably linked to life.
Renata Blaisten
