Calavera
Calavera – 3D print model STL
3D Print File Format: STL
“Calavera” is a Spanish word that translates to “skull” or “skeleton” in English. It is often associated with the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebration, a traditional Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones.
**Key Points about Calaveras and Día de los Muertos:**
1. **Symbolism:** In Mexican culture, calaveras, which can be in the form of sugar skulls (calaveras de azúcar) or artistic representations of skulls and skeletons, are used as symbols to represent the cycle of life and death. They are colorful and often intricately decorated.
2. **Día de los Muertos:** Día de los Muertos is a multi-day holiday celebrated from October 31 to November 2. It combines indigenous Aztec beliefs with Catholicism and is a time for families to remember and honor deceased relatives. During this time, people create ofrendas (altars) with offerings of food, marigold flowers, candles, and calaveras to welcome the spirits of the departed.
3. **Sugar Skulls:** Sugar skulls are a common element of Día de los Muertos celebrations. They are made from sugar and decorated with vibrant icing and other edible adornments. These skulls are often personalized with the names of deceased loved ones and placed on ofrendas as offerings.
4. **Artistic Expression:** Calaveras are also a popular subject in Mexican folk art and are used in various forms of artistic expression, including paintings, sculptures, and papel picado (elaborate paper cutouts).
5. **Catrina:** La Calavera Catrina, or simply Catrina, is one of the most iconic representations of calaveras. It is a well-dressed female skeleton figure created by Mexican artist José Guadalupe Posada. Catrina has become a symbol of the holiday and is often depicted wearing elegant clothing and a fancy hat.
6. **Modern Celebrations:** Día de los Muertos has gained recognition and popularity outside of Mexico and is now celebrated in many parts of the world. It is often associated with vibrant parades, face painting, and a festive atmosphere.
Overall, calaveras and Día de los Muertos are important cultural symbols in Mexican tradition, representing a unique and beautiful way of honoring the deceased and acknowledging the interconnectedness of life and death.