Rococo was perhaps the most rebellious of design styles. Often described as the final expression of the Baroque movement, it was exceptionally ornamental and theatrical – a style without rules.

Final answer: Baroque and Rococo styles from the 17th and 18th centuries featured intense ornamentation and elaboration. While Baroque art focused on emotional intensity and grandeur, Rococo style represented leisure and playfulness.

French Rococo painting in general was characterized by easygoing, lighthearted treatments of mythological and courtship themes, rich and delicate brushwork, a relatively light tonal key, and sensuous colouring. Rococo sculpture was notable for its intimate scale, its naturalism, and its varied surface effects.

Lesson Summary. The Rococo style began in Paris, France during the 18th century, and was most popular from 1730-1770. Jean-Antoine Watteau is regarded as the first Rococo artist (or the father of the movement), and was known for popularizing the fête galante style.