Waldemar Januszczak challenges the traditional notion of The Renaissance having fixed origins in Italy and showcases the ingenuity in both technique and ideas behind great artists such as Van Eyck, Memling, Van der Weyden, Cranach, Reimenschneider and Durer.

Waldemar Januszczak traces the Italian Renaissance from its perceieved origins with Giotto, and looks at the importance of religious narrative in art.

Waldemar Januszczak focuses on Venice and its extraordinary impact on art history. He celebrates colour, drama and vitality by looking at the delicate colours of Bellini, the mystery of Giorgione, the splendour of Titan, the drama and chaos of Tintoretto and the glorious banquets of Veronese.

Waldemar Januszczak looks at the climax of the Renaissance as it spiralled into madness and distortion, a period full of war, confusion and darkness.