Ancient Greece and Rome
Europeans had a growing interest in ancient Greece and Rome ever since they were rediscovered in the Italian Renaissance. By 1770 this interest had developed into the Neo-Classical, or New Classical, style. It involved a restrained use of simple, clean lines and ornament inspired by Classical architecture. This was in sharp contrast to the earlier Rococo style. In architecture and interior design, the architect Robert Adam led the way. Josiah Wedgwood revolutionised pottery production with his copies of Greek vases and newly developed ceramic wares.