Crossword Genius

Reportedly steals minstrel’s tools of the trade (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

lutes

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'tools of the trade' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I can't see?

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for lutes that I've seen is " Old stringed instruments".)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app