How was Mesoamerican art often utilized besides aesthetic purposes?

Mesoamerican art served significant functions beyond mere aesthetics, with one crucial purpose being historical documentation. This art often depicted key events, mythical narratives, and genealogies of rulers or significant leaders, providing future generations with insights into the culture, values, and historical context of Mesoamerican societies.

Sculptures, murals, and codices frequently illustrated the achievements of rulers, religious ceremonies, and social hierarchies, thereby acting as a form of record-keeping. By documenting these aspects visually and textually, Mesoamerican artworks became vital resources for understanding the past and transferring knowledge across generations.

In contrast, while art might have had roles in trade, establishing political alliances, or practical daily use, these functions were secondary to its primary role in preserving history and culture. The prominence of historical themes in Mesoamerican art underscores the society's emphasis on memory and collective identity.