geometric patterns

Inspired by pre-Hispanic ceramics and his country's rich history, El Salvador's Oscar Rodolfo Mendoza crafts beautiful tableware. This striking pair of luncheon plates is formed from terracotta and accented with a colorful rim with bold geometric patterns. The artisan names the design Tazumal, after the ancient Maya complex located in Chalchuapa, El Salvador. "With this line, I wanted to capture the lines and motifs that represent the architecture of the archaeological sites of El Salvador, full of pyramids and buildings built many years ago by our ancestors," Mendoza comments.

Inspired by pre-Hispanic ceramics and his country's rich history, El Salvador's Oscar Rodolfo Mendoza crafts beautiful tableware. This striking pair of dinner plates is formed from terracotta and accented with a colorful rim with bold geometric patterns. The artisan names the design Tazumal, after the ancient Maya complex located in Chalchuapa, El Salvador. "With this line, I wanted to capture the lines and motifs that represent the architecture of the archaeological sites of El Salvador, full of pyramids and buildings built many years ago by our ancestors," Mendoza comments.

Mesmerizing, the hypnotic design of this cylindrical decorative vase is by Daysis Sanchez. "This design is inspired by patterns that we see all around us. We started connecting them, and this is the result," confides the Nicaraguan artisan. The etched green and black geometric motifs on the hand crafted vase are underscored by the warm earthy hue of terracotta.

To craft this product, the artisan uses her own feet to knead the clay, and bamboo sticks to ensure an even shape. Pumice stones are use to ensure an even surface, and the stone of the zapote fruit is used to polish the piece.

Shaped like an urn, this handcrafted ceramic vase is filled with Inca artistry. "The patterns are inspired by Andean fields, where flowers, wheat and rice are harvested," explain the Huaman Paucar Family artisans, who replicate the ancient glyphs that conveyed information on sowing.