Another inspiration piece this time by the sculptor Agatha Walker. Readers may recall us previously looking at Harradine’s Royal Doulton figure Anthea, which was similarly inspired by Walker’s work and of course the similarities between Walker’s and Harradine’s Beggars Opera figures is immediately obvious. For the latter both took direct inspiration from the original Lovat Fraser costume designs for the Beggars Opera.

Returning to Miranda, here you can see the wax Agatha Walker figure (below) in the V&A collection of the actress Edith Evans (1886-1961) who famously portrayed Mrs. Sullen in George Farquhar’s comedy The Beaux’ Stratagem.

Just like the Beggars Opera it was performed at the Lyric Hammersmith and was a success. The Beaux’ Stratagem is a comedy, known for its witty dialogue and satirical portrayal of social dynamics.