Neoclassical art emerged in 18th century Europe as a reaction against the excessive Baroque style, emphasizing order, reason, and inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman art. Prominent artists like Jacques-Louis David, Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, and Antonio Canova exemplified this movement through works that featured idealized beauty, civic duty, and historical subjects. Neoclassicism significantly influenced Western art and culture, leaving a lasting legacy seen in architecture and artistic trends.