Patronage refers to the support, encouragement, or financial backing provided by an individual or organization to artists, writers, or institutions. This support can take various forms, such as funding for projects, purchasing artwork, or providing resources for creative endeavors. Historically, patronage has played a crucial role in the development of the arts, allowing creators to focus on their work without the burden of financial concerns. In many cases, patrons are wealthy individuals or institutions, such as churches or royal courts, that seek to promote culture and enhance their own status through association with talented creators. Notable examples of patronage include the support given to Leonardo da Vinci by Ludovico Sforza and the Medici family's influence on the Renaissance artists.