The Early Renaissance was a cultural movement that began in Italy during the late 14th century and lasted into the early 16th century. It marked a revival of interest in the classical art and ideas of ancient Greece and Rome. Artists and thinkers focused on humanism, emphasizing the value of individual experience and the study of classical texts. Key figures of the Early Renaissance include artists like Giotto, who introduced more naturalistic styles, and Donatello, known for his sculptures. This period also saw advancements in techniques such as linear perspective, which allowed for more realistic representations of space in art.