The walls of wooden keros (ceremonial drinking vessels) were thick, but finely shaped and finished to fit comfortably in the hand. The ornamentation was first carved into the surface of the vessel, and then painted with a heavy, enamel-like pigment, giving it a slightly raised surface. The narrative scene on this cup depicts a man leading a llama while a woman follows; all three are carrying packs on their backs. Llamas were the primary burden animal in the Andes, and were relied upon to transport goods throughout the region.