The Zulu people have traditionally been pastoral people, relying on cows for meat and milk. The daily practice of milking was preceded with singing and dancing, along with the royal milkers holding the wooden pails in front with outstretched arms, whistling to calm the cows. The sides of the milk pail is decorated with traditional scarification along with protruding handles that helped keep the pail between the milkers legs. The breasts and curves echo the female body during pregnancy. The wood has slight imperfections due to its natural material and age. These make excellent planters and interior design displays.