Pepe Mendoza Lotus Flower Malachite & Brass Catchall Dish

A striking example of Mexican Mid-Century Modern decorative design, this sculptural lotus flower catchall dish by Pepe Mendoza combines substantial cast brass with vivid green malachite stone inlay. Mendoza’s work is celebrated for its bold use of metal and richly colored natural materials, and this piece beautifully captures the expressive, handcrafted character associated with his designs.

The dish is formed as a stylized lotus flower, with overlapping petals radiating outward from the center. Each individual section is inset with brilliant turquoise-green malachite, creating a mosaic-like surface framed by the warm golden tones of the brass. Natural variations in the stone—including shifts from pale aqua to deeper green, mineral markings, and irregularities—give the piece tremendous depth and ensure that no two areas appear exactly alike.

Particularly impressive is the physical presence of the piece. Constructed from heavy, solid brass, it feels exceptionally substantial in the hand. The gently dished profile and thick, sculpted perimeter emphasize the quality of its construction, while the irregular petal-shaped edge gives it an almost jewel-like appearance when viewed from above.

The contrast between the cool green malachite and aged brass is quintessentially Mendoza: luxurious without being overly formal and distinctly rooted in the exuberant material palette of Mexican Modernism.

Equally beautiful as a catchall, vide-poche, jewelry dish, decorative bowl, or sculptural tabletop object, it would be an excellent addition to a collection of Mexican Mid-Century Modern design, alongside works by Arturo Pani, Los Castillo, Salvador Terán, and other important Mexican designers and workshops of the period.

Details:

Pepe Mendoza
Mexico
Mid-Century Modern
solid cast brass with malachite stone inlay
stylized lotus flower form
heavy and substantial construction
vintage condition with age-appropriate patina and natural variation to the stone.
Dimensions: