What does the term "tradesman" denote in the context of medieval painters?

In the context of medieval painters, the term "tradesman" primarily denotes a worker skilled in a specific craft. This aligns with the historical context in which many painters worked within guilds, where they were often categorized based on their technical skills and craftsmanship rather than on the fine arts as we understand them today.

Medieval painters were typically involved in the practical aspects of producing artworks, using specific techniques and materials to create their pieces. This notion of being a tradesman emphasizes the skilled labor involved in painting rather than the purely artistic expression or creativity often associated with artists today. The focus was on the mastery of skills necessary to produce artworks, which were often religious or utilitarian in nature.

The other options refer more to concepts that are outside the specific meaning of "tradesman." Being adept in art and commerce implies a broader understanding of art as a business, which extends beyond the basic definition. Similarly, a novice would not be considered a tradesman but rather someone at the beginning of their training. Finally, an artist specializing in fine art suggests a level of artistic expression that may not have been the primary focus for many medieval painters, whose work was often bound by the conventions of their craft and the expectations of their commissioning bodies.