H. Wilson & Co.
Jar with Lid

MakerAmerican, c. 1869–1884
CultureAmerican
Titles
  • Jar with Lid
Datec. 1869–1884
Made inTexas, United States
MediumSalt-glazed stoneware with slip interior
Dimensions13 × 8 1/2 in. diameter (33 × 21.6 cm)
Credit LineThe Bayou Bend Collection, gift of William J. Hill
Object numberB.2012.145.A,.B
Current Location
Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens
Texas Alcove And Hall
On view

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Department
Bayou Bend
Object Type
Description

In 1869 John M. Wilson sold his interest in the Guadalupe Pottery to his partner, Marion J. Durham. This sale may have prompted the establishment of a new pottery by men formerly enslaved by John M. Wilson. Hyrum Wilson (1836–1884), James Wilson (1847–1917), Wallace Wilson (born c. 1845), Andrew Wilson (dates unknown), and George Wilson (dates unknown) founded the firm that would be known as H. Wilson & Company. Hyrum, James, and Wallace became the principals of the new enterprise, one of the first African American owned businesses in Texas, which operated until 1884. Breaking from the southern tradition of using alkaline glazes, H. Wilson & Company appears to have used only salt glazing for its wares, a technique thought to have been introduced by Ohio native Isaac Suttles.

The jar’s surface suggests temperature inconsistencies in the kiln that resulted in poor glaze adhesion.


Provenance[Jon St. Clair, Austin]; purchased by William J. Hill (1934–2018), Houston, date unknown; given to MFAH, 2012.
Inscriptions, Signatures and Marks
etched at shoulder approximately 2 inches from top " 2 "; etched on opposite shoulder approximately 2 1/2 inches from top " H WILSON & Co. "

Cataloguing data may change with further research.

If you have questions about this work of art or the MFAH Online Collection please contact us.

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