Chronologically this course runs from 1500-1570, or in period jargon, from the High Renaissance to Mannerism, and concludes at the beginning of the Church Reform period. The three artists cited in the course title created the dominant artistic styles of the 16th c. in two geographical areas–the Central (Florence and Rome) and Northern (Venice) parts of the Italian peninsula ("Italy" as a nation state emerged only in the late 19th c.) Other artists and areas, however, will interest us as well. While the course emphasis will be upon painting, both sculpture and architecture will be included. Some reference also will be made to drawing, the graphic arts, ceramics, and small scale work in precious metals. Finally we also will be concerned with those who commissioned the art and why.