Refers to the style of art and architecture resulting from the spread of the Renaissance from Italy into northern Europe in the late 15th century. It took hold principally in the courts of the French kings after the invasion of Italy in 1494, in the Netherlands with Margaret of Austria, and in Germany with the emperor Maximillion, and was later adopted by the dukes of Bavaria and by the English royal court. It is characterized by the influence of Classical prototypes and Italian Renaissance ideals, an emphasis on detail, optical clarity, and the use of oil paint and glazes to create brilliant colors.
