The correct answer is patronage. Patronage refers to a system in which kings, rulers, and other affluent individuals provide financial and other forms of support to artists, musicians, writers, and other creative figures. This support enables them to pursue their artistic endeavors and create works of art. It has been a common practice throughout history where patrons would commission artists to create specific works or provide general support for their artistic pursuits. Examples of famous patrons include the Medici family in Renaissance Florence, who supported artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.