In a book of this sort, it is possible to mention only a few of the artists and works of art of the period. This inevitable and unfortunate oversimplification must not be allowed to obscure the fact that the artistic production of Northern Europe in the sixteenth century was vast, rich, and complex. Though the changes and upheavals of the age may have produced conditions inimical to artistic development, they could not quench it.
Readers must also be careful not to try to reduce so vast a subject to a few easy generalizations. It is convenient to classify art and artists according to schools and trends, but these are, after all, nothing more than conveniences. An artist or a group of artists, a work of art or a group of works, may be called medieval, Early Renaissance, High Renaissance, Mannerist, and so forth; but each artist, each picture or statue or building is unique. One great work for example, a painting by Bruegel or an etching by Drer can provide material for almost endless study and reflection. The study or appreciation of the work of one of the great masters can occupy a lifetime. Madonna, Portal of the Chartruse de Champol