Groups ranked as artisans in emerging social hierarchies in early river civilizations were known as 'Skilled Craftsmen'.
In societies with rigid hierarchies, a craftsman had a better social standing than the ordinary peasant. A Skilled craftsmen could hope to make more money, earn more respect and even get a chance at climbing the social ladder.
Highly skilled craftsmen including carpenters, musicians, architects and painters. Some of the best were supported by the Kings of the era and could made a comfortable living.