What shift in society and economics enabled art such as this to appear at this time?

The emergence of art supported by the patronage of commercial elites represents a significant shift in societal and economic structures during the period. Prior to this, art was largely funded by the church or royal institutions, which often conformed to specific religious or political agendas. However, with the rise of a wealthy merchant class and the expansion of trade, especially during the Renaissance and into the Baroque period, these commercial elites began to invest in art as a means of displaying their wealth and social status.

This transition allowed artists greater freedom to explore themes beyond strictly religious subjects, leading to a broader variety of artistic expressions and the emergence of styles that reflected both the patrons' tastes and the societal changes of the time. The support of these wealthy individuals had a significant impact on the direction of art and culture, creating an environment where innovative and secular themes could flourish alongside traditional ones.