Niche
Niche (nich) , noun
[French, from Italian nicchia, prop., a shell-like recess in a wall, from nicchio a shellfish, mussel, from Latin mytilus.]
A cavity, hollow, or recess, generally within the thickness of a wall, for a statue, bust, or other erect ornament. Hence, any similar position, literal or figurative.
Images defended from the injuries of the weather by niches of stone wherein they are placed.