ALTAR OF NICHOLAS OF CUSA (or Nicholas of Kues or Nicolaus Cusanus) (1401-1464) by Andrea Bregno in the basilica of St.Peter in Chains (San Pietro in Vincoli) in Rome; Italy. German philosopher; theologian; jurist; and astronomer Nicholas of Cusa was appointed cardinal for his merits by Pope Nicholas V in 1448. Marble bas-relief. The cardinal is shown kneeling in veneration at left; with St. Peter seated in the centre. St. Peter holds a book and a key in one hand; and with the other accepts a chain from an angel. Photo : Eric Vandeville/akg-images