Pepe Mendoza | Magnificent Mexican Modernism

Designer Pepe Mendoza ran a foundry in Mexico that produced a limited number of furniture pieces and decorative objects in the late 1950s and 60s. His work is characterized by a cloisonné type technique, utilizing turquoise and other colorful stones to create elaborate metalwork in exuberant forms. Rumor has it that Mendoza also produced hardware for other well-known mid-century modern designers, such as T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings and California designers Jerome and Evelyn Ackerman. Mendoza’s work has a distinct glamour and style to it, perfect for West Coast living.


Coffee table in brass, ceramic and glass along with Mendoza’s classic cloisonné technique, c. 1960.


A rare pair of Mendoza leather lounge chairs constructed of rosewood and walnut, c. 1955.


This “Lotus” plate highlights Mendoza’s use of colorful turquoise and love of exuberant form. Brass, ceramic and inlay, c. 1960.

Pepe Mendoza credenza


Mendoza’s rare mahogany and brass credenza boasts four solid brass Greek key pulls and one round pull, all with turquoise ceramic inlay. The whimsical legs are constructed of solid brass and inlay, c. 1950s.


A Pepe Mendoza side table showcases an abstract modernist design, bringing elements from the sea to mind. Bronze, brass, walnut and his classic inlay technique, c. 1950s.


These Mendoza decorative objects, two handles and one tray, are inspired by traditional Mexican designs and again highlight his ceramic inlay technique, c. 1950s, Mexico City.

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GIANFRANCO FRATTINI