The Wax Figures in Westminster Abbey

These wax figures, dressed in the costumes of the day, were carried in the funeral processions of great personages, and were left to mark the place of burial until funeral monuments could be erected.

Among the effigies now remaining are those of Queen Elizabeth, Charles I., and Queen Philippa. They are kept in an alcove leading by a spiral stairway from Islip Chapel. The exhibition, at stated times, of these figures, called "The Play of the Dead-volk," was discontinued only in 1839, and is the origin of the modern "wax-work" exhibition known as "Mrs. Jarley's."

In the alcove with these wax figures is shown the box in which the remains of Major Andre were taken to England.