Algardi, Alessandro (1595–1654)

Italian baroque sculptor. He was active in Bologna, Rome, and at the papal court. His major works include the above life-size Decapitation of St Paul 1641–47 in San Paolo, Bologna, and the tomb of Pope Leo XI 1634–52 and Pope Leo driving Attila from Rome 1646–53, both in St Peter's, Rome.

Although Algardi's work is more restrained than that of his contemporary and rival Bernini, it is wholly baroque in style, with figures often contorted and full of movement. He was an outstanding portrait sculptor, and it is for these busts, for example St Philip Neri 1640 (Sta Maria Vallicella, Rome), that he is now best remembered.

Born in Bologna, Algardi was a pupil at the academy run by the Carracci family of painters. His work gained favour under the pontificate of Innocent X (1644–55), during which period Bernini was out of favour. He is known for his church monuments; he executed two statues in stucco for the Capella Bondini in the church of San Silvestro, Rome.