Final answer:
Mannerism emerged around 1520 and lasted until 1580, serving as a bridge between the High Renaissance and Baroque periods, characterized by elongated and distorted forms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mannerism Emergence Period
Mannerism is an artistic style that emerged as the dominant style in the early 16th century, specifically around 1520 and continued to be prevalent until about 1580. This style development took place during an era marked by various social and religious upheavals, including the Sack of Rome and the Protestant Reformation. Mannerism, known for its elongated forms and distorted compositions, was a reaction to the highly idealized art of the High Renaissance. The end of the Mannerist period gave rise to the Baroque era, championed by artists such as Caravaggio and Carracci, who moved away from the Mannerist style.
While mannerism was initially looked upon as a distorted deviation from Renaissance ideals, it was later celebrated for its complexity and experimental approach. Artists like Jacopo da Pontormo exemplify the transition from Renaissance to Mannerist style, indicating mannerism's significant role in the art history between the High Renaissance and the Baroque movements.