Wenzel Friedrich, Rocking Chair, c. 1880–90, steer horn, jaguar hide, iron, chrome-plated iron, and wood, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, gift of William J. Hill.

A Texas Legacy: Selections from the William J. Hill Collection tells the story of early Texas decorative arts through a selection of furniture, drawings, paintings, pottery, silver, and other goods made between the mid-19th and early 20th centuries.

The exhibition brings together objects from the era of the Republic of Texas, when Texas was a sparsely settled territory (1836 to 1845); to the turn of the 20th century, when the oil boom resulted in the rapid expansion of the state’s economy, transportation networks, and population. A Texas Legacy showcases the traditional craft practices employed by early settlers as they produced everything from utilitarian, stoneware pottery to highly accomplished, decorative pieces of furniture.

This presentation offers insight into the practices of early Texas artists and artisans. More than 65 works of art are on view, created for both personal and commercial use. Highlights include a one-of-a-kind, intricately carved desk by Adolph Kempen; a monumental wardrobe by Johann Michael Jahn; and early Texas silver by Samuel Bell.