Renaissance (14th – 17th Century)
The word Renaissance means “rebirth” in French, reflecting a revival of interest in the art, science, and philosophy of Ancient Greece and Rome. Artists were inspired by humanism, placing people and the natural world at the centre of their work. They developed techniques such as perspective, proportion, and careful observation to create realistic paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Renaissance art often explored biblical and mythological themes but in a more naturalistic way than the medieval style before it. The period gradually gave way to the more dramatic and emotional style of the Baroque era in the 17th century.
Learn more Encyclopædia Britannica – “Renaissance art”
Artworks to be inspired by-
Click the artist and artwork to find an image of the work to inspire you
Leonardo da Vinci – Study of Hands (c. 1474–1510, drawing)
Albrecht Dürer – Praying Hands (German, early 16th century, drawing)
Leonardo da Vinci – Study of Hands vs. Albrecht Dürer – Praying Hands
Both of these are Renaissance drawings, but they show two slightly different approaches:
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Leonardo da Vinci used metal point and whitening (possibly chalk) for his Study of Hands. His aim was scientific as well as artistic — he observed anatomy carefully, showing how muscles and bones create natural movement. His sketches feel like a study from life, part of his wider curiosity about how the human body works.
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Albrecht Dürer, in his Praying Hands, focused more on expression and devotion. The hands are beautifully drawn with precise lines and shading, but they are also symbolic — representing humility, prayer, and faith.
👉 Leonardo’s drawing is about understanding and study, while Dürer’s is about meaning and feeling. Both show the Renaissance belief that drawing is the foundation of art, but one leans toward science, the other toward spirituality.
Key Artwork example of the movement
Leonardo da Vinci – The Last Supper (1495–1498)
This mural is a perfect Renaissance example because it shows the use of linear perspective to create depth and realism. Leonardo captures a biblical scene with carefully observed human gestures and expressions, reflecting the Renaissance interest in both science and humanism. The balance, harmony, and focus on proportion show how artists of the time wanted to create an idealised yet natural-looking world.
Artists to Research:
Leonardo da Vinci
Michelangelo Buonarroti
Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio)
Donatello
Sandro Boticelli
Albrecht Durer
Titian (Tiziano Vecellio)
Jan van Eyck
Hieronymus Bosch
Sofonisba Anguissola
Carlo Crivelli
Caravaggio
El Greco