Final answer:
The increasing merchant class's demand for landscape paintings allowed artists to gain financial stability and focus on creating unique artwork.
Step-by-step explanation:
The increasing merchant class's demand for landscape paintings allowed artists to gain financial stability and patronage. These artists could now focus on creating and refining their artistic skills, as they no longer had to rely solely on the support of the aristocracy. The demand for landscape paintings also led to the exploration of new painting techniques and styles, as artists sought to capture landscapes in unique and captivating ways.
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