Which artistic movement is known for its ornate detail and playful themes?

The Rococo movement is characterized by its lightness, elegance, and an exuberant use of ornamentation, making it distinct in the history of art. Emerging in the early 18th century, it primarily flourished in France and is closely associated with the reign of Louis XV. Rococo artists employed intricate detail and a playful, sometimes whimsical approach to themes, often focusing on romance, mythology, and pastoral scenes.

This movement is marked by soft colors, curvilinear forms, and elaborate decorations, such as shells, flowers, and arabesques, all contributing to a sense of charm and grace. Rococo art diverges from the dramatic intensity and grandeur associated with Baroque art, instead embracing a lighter and more carefree aesthetic, making it recognizable and influential in the transition towards modern artistic movements.

This emphasis on ornate detail and playful themes is what solidifies Rococo as the correct answer, distinguishing it from the more serious and emotional tones found in movements such as Romanticism and the more experimental approach of Impressionism.