Ever look at paintings from centuries ago and notice that the backgrounds look very flat? That's not always due to a lack of ability to paint in a life-like manner. Many cultures preferred "incorrect" perspective in their art because it allowed for more creative license. When the artist wasn't obligated to portray environmental objects as they appear, he could paint them according to their level of importance, for example, as this 17th century Indian painting does. Note the very large temple in the back.
Geometric perspective bloomed in the 15th century with some of the best known artists of all time. This painting, "School of Athens" by Raphael in 1510, is one of art history's favorite pieces that focuses on a the beauty of the environment as well as all the details in each individual face.
I wanted to point out the breath-taking awe of both uses of perspective, as one is not better than another. The environment is used to give the feeling of their choice, ranging from open and imaginative to appearing as though the painting were a room we were entering.
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