The period in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, that was characterized by a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman art, philosophy, and science. Renaissance began in italy and spread over other european countries. It prefered motives from greek and roman mythology. Taking great interest in natural sciences and the individual human being, renaissance painters began to protray human beings and their environment in a more realistic manner. The portait became one of the typical forms of renaissance art.
Here we find representations of the urban life and architecture. For a long time the symbolizing and typifying charakter has been dominating the cityscape in fine arts. In the17th century the real town finally becomes the main source of inspiration, especially in Dutch painting. Due to the increasing industrialisation and mechanisation it is above all – especially in photography – the large city, that attracts the interest of the artists.