High Renaissance Art

High Renaissance Art, spanning roughly from the late 15th to early 16th centuries, represents a peak in artistic achievement in Europe, particularly in Italy. Characterized by a focus on harmony, balance, and realism, artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael mastered techniques such as perspective and chiaroscuro (the use of light and shadow). They captured human emotion and beauty in their works, often featuring religious themes, but also included classical inspirations. This period emphasized individual creativity and the intellect of the artist, leading to some of the most iconic masterpieces in Western art history.