About the Artwork

Every Maulid Nabi (the birthday of Prophet Muhammad SAW) in Mandar, West Sulawesi, a unique tradition takes place. Children who have completed their Khatam Al-Quran (finishing the recitation of the Holy Quran) are honored with a celebratory parade around the village. They ride a Sayyang Pattuqduq, which literally translates to "Dancing Horse."

Dressed in beautiful traditional Mandar attire for girls and Arab-style turbans for boys, the riders sit gracefully atop the horses. The procession is accompanied by the rhythmic beat of Rebana music and the soulful chanting of traditional Mandar poetry, known as Kalindaqdaq.