The roles of handcrafts and artisans were very important in the Incan Empire. Handcrafts and artisans were sold to better the economy and provide income for families during that time. During this time, the economy was dependent on artisans because the artisans would see their works within a market but also sold through their homes. There were many reasons for the Incas to sell their handcrafts. However, selling crafts for economic purposes was not the only reason for handcrafts and artisans.
During the times of the Incan Empire, another role of artistry was used to worship the Incan gods. Primarily, the Sun was worshipped as a god. Through this, most hand crafts were given as a offering to the gods. After the Spanish conquest, the role of art shifted quite a lot. The primary focus of art then switched to one god, the Christian God. In other words, monotheism as the worship of one god. The purpose of this was to build a foundation of religion somewhat through art.