Around 1900, Mexico City began the transition from animal- powered streetcars to the new electric-powered version. The streetcar at the right of this image shows the vehicle with the spring-loaded pole connecting to a power line overhead. The tall calaveras stands giving a speech to a captivated audience as if to inaugurate the new technology that would propel Mexico into the 20th century. The article expresses this sentiment, noting that the dead will rise in song and dance to celebrate. The text specifically mentions Dolores in reference to the Dolores Cemetery in Mexico City, which is on one of the streetcar routes. Coincidentally, Posada is buried in an unmarked grave in the Dolores Cemetery.
José Guadalupe Posada (Mexican, 1852-1913)
Gran Calavera Eléctrica (Large Electric Skull), ca. 1907
Broadside (verso), photo-relief and letterpress on paper
Miami University Art Museum Purchase
2014.55.16b