Final answer:
The French Renaissance peaked later due to the slow process of centralization of political power, a delayed cultural shift towards urban centers, and economic factors such as the focus on luxury goods. This was further influenced by the later spread of Italian Renaissance art brought about by the Italian Wars and adapted by the Fontainebleau School.
Step-by-step explanation:
The French Renaissance peaked later than in other European countries due to a combination of political, cultural, and economic factors. Notably, the centralization of political power under the French monarchy, following the restructuring of local government during the 13th century, led to a stronger centralized government which emerged later compared to the city-states of Italy. The Gothic period also saw a return of population to the cities in France, but French royalty's expansion and the establishment of centralized governance meant significant transformations needed to occur first. Notably, the Italian Wars and Henri IV's reign brought Italian artists to France, leading to the Fontainebleau School and the spread of 'Italianism' within French art. Moreover, the Northern Renaissance began later than the Italian Renaissance and had distinct characteristics and strengths due to different regional influences and existing political structures. France's process of social and economic transformation was tied to agricultural advancements and the subsequent urban migration, the establishment of early universities, and cultural shifts like the increase in literacy. The later impact of industrialization and the preference for luxury goods over mass production also contributed to the distinct pacing and nature of France's Renaissance.