Western European Baroque was an artistic and architectural style that flourished from the late 16th century to the early 18th century. It is characterized by dramatic use of light and shadow, bold colors, and intricate details. This style aimed to evoke emotion and grandeur, often seen in the works of artists like Caravaggio and Peter Paul Rubens. In architecture, Baroque is marked by elaborate designs, grandiose structures, and a sense of movement. Notable examples include the Palace of Versailles in France and St. Peter's Basilica in Italy. The Baroque period also influenced music, with composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Antonio Vivaldi creating complex and expressive works.