Vision of St Nicholas

This work was largely carried out by assistant (Ercole Ferrata and Domenico Guidi) but it bears the stamp of Algardi’s genius nonetheless. In addition to the basic design, Algardi furnished the architectural surround which establishes the specific setting for the sculptural group by creating a curved niche in which two reliefs are placed diagonally opposite each other. The curvature enhances the relationship of the two groups by allowing the sculptor to manipulate the degrees of relief in order to give prominence to the Virgin and Child and St Nicholas holding the bread which cured him of illness.