The Renaissance had began in the late 13th century and had spread throughout Europe by 15th century. It was an influential cultural movement inspired by classical learning and knowledge of European culture such as the ancient Greeks and Romans. In addition to the rebirth of classical values, renaissance artists were producing sculpture and paintings showing joy in human beauty and life's pleasures. The rapier became the sword of choice for most of the military. Since armor was in decline the blades could be slimmer with a more ornate guard. The Renaissance flourished for centuries and finally ended in the 16th and early 17th century.