Mannerism, from Italian ‘maniera,’ or ‘manner’ or ‘style’, is an artistic movement that came into being towards the end of the Renaissance period, with its most pronounced development in the 16th century. Recognized as an early form of emotive art, seeking to incite a feeling of deep emotion or drama, Mannerism broke away from the balance and harmony defined by its predecessor art style, the High Renaissance. This dramatic form of expression was accentuated throughout intricately constructed compositions which often featured contorted, elongated figures in elegant and sophisticated poses. Known for its diversion from naturalism, Mannerism intuitively fused imagery with intellectual complexity throughout its peak from 1520 to 1580. Taking on the challenging of defining artistic conventions during this time, Mannerism was headlined by the artists Parmigianino, Jacopo da Pontormo, and Bronzino whose innovative approaches defined the style. Mannerism simplified barriers of different art forms, merging painting with sculpture and architecture in turn crafting a durable mark in the history of Western art. Despite varying critiques on divergence from classically set ideals, Mannerism accounts a noteworthy decorative artwork through the experimental era at acheing remarkable level of expression.