Gaming Counter with the Arms of Proctor

Gaming Counter with the Arms of Proctor

This fish-shaped counter comes from an early eighteenth-century set likely made for George Proctor (?-1744). Little is known about George other than his family lineage and his ownership of Langley Park in Norfolk, England. George’s sister, Anne Proctor, married Thomas Beauchamp, and together they had a child, William Beauchamp (1722-1773). Thomas died in 1724, and George Proctor adopted young William as his own.

Following the death of George Proctor, William changed his name to William Beauchamp-Proctor in accordance with the will of his adopted father. Far more is known about William than George. On February 20, 1745 William was made a Baronet. He would serve in Parliament, and as a member of the Knights Companion of the Order of the Bath.[i] The document below is an official government document, and it displays the rank and name of William.

Fish counters were popular in the early to mid-eighteenth century. Counter sets included multiple shapes, and the fish shape was included in this set. The single fish style was used in at least forty-four sets between 1720 and 1750.[ii]

 

 

Museum Purchase with Funds provided by H.F. Lenfest, W. Groke Mickey, and the Frances and Beverly M. DuBose Foundation

Mother-of-Pearl

2015.39.10

Made in Guangzhou (Canton), China

2.76in