Since the first prehistoric cave painting, and perhaps much earlier, mankind has always used art as a form of expression. As each historical period passed, new technologies and techniques arrived, and they were all influenced by the unique style, characteristics, and social conditions of those periods. Although each period discovered new, unique artistic forms and styles, most historical periods were influenced by a previous historical period. In this essay I will explore the relationship, style, and influences of the Renaissance and Baroque periods and compare and contrast a work of art from both periods to further explain the relationship between the two eras. The Renaissance period began in Italy and occurred between 1400 and 1600. In French, the term Renaissance means rebirth, which is an accurate way to describe that period since it was then that many people chose to break away from stagnation, uncertainty, and extreme hardships that occurred during the Middle Ages and afflicted much of Europe. The Renaissance period is known to have been a time when the population sought educational reforms that increased literacy and many were able to master more than one set of skills. This led to an intellectual, economic and artistic revolution that transformed several European nations such as Italy, France, Spain and many others. During this period there were several developments within the Catholic Church, such as scandals and controversies. Because of this, many people were turned away from church traditions and sought greater freedom of expression and individualism. As economies improved, there was more wealth and a desire for self-improvement which greatly influenced the arts. detailed artwork. Through his passionate and ornate styles he influenced the Rococo period and other eras producing even more extravagant and opulent art. Due to its popularity, it was adopted internationally and featured many variations of styles. There have been many great artists, such as Rubens, Caravaggio, Bernini, Rembrandt, Velazquez, Vermeer, Bach, Vivaldi and many others who used their art as a way to raise social consciousness, exploit and delight the senses. The impact that the Baroque period had on architecture can be admired today by visiting the Electorate Palace in Trier, Germany, Santa Susanna in Rome, Italy, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Krakow, Poland, and the Church of St. Peter and Paul The Church of Vilnius, Lithuania, the Trevi Fountain in Rome, the Palace of Versailles, France.