Neo-Classicism (1750 - 1880) Neo-Classicism, originating in Rome in the late 18th Century, can be characterized as a reaction to the light-hearted and excessive Baroque and Rococo periods. Neo-Classicism was an attempt to re-create the glory, spirit and decorative themes of classical Greek and Roman art. Neo-Classicism also had social implications. It was thought that through this return to ancient Roman artistic principles, society as a whole would again embrace the Roman and Greek values of life and civility. The balance of form and simplicity of Neo-Classical works restored an elegance to the art of the times, that really was nothing new but just a revival of past glory.