The phrase "earlier tradition" refers to customs, beliefs, or practices that were established and followed by people in the past. It implies that these traditions happened before the present time or the current way of doing things. Full definition
The juxtaposition reveals the various pioneering styles and techniques each artist employed while paying homage to earlier traditions of painting. (acquavellagalleries.com)
More commonly the document as a whole is placed twenty years later, though it is recognized that it reflects earlier traditions. (religion-online.org)
In keeping with early traditions celebrating creativity, here are five great Valentine's Day presents that you can make or design. (modernlovelongdistance.com)