Upvote:-1
The OED (1928) Vol. II attests the word only since 1732 or 1714 depending on sense:
1. One who knows, one versed in a subject. Obs. 1732 BERKELEY Alciphr[on, or the Minute Philosopher] v. Β§ 27 Commendation of Honour and Good-nature: but the former of these, by Connoisseurs, is always understood to mean nothing but Fashion. ....
2. spec. A person well acquainted with one of the fine arts, and competent to pass judgement in relation thereto; a critical judge of art or of matters of taste. 1714 MANDEVILLE *Fable of Bees (1723) 374 There are Parties among connoisseurs, and few of them agree in their esteem. ....