Aika ceremony, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Lianna, seven, at the end of her 'Aika,' a traditional Minangkabau ceremony. The Minangkabau is a matrilineal society in which surnames and property pass from mother to daughter Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna in her traditional makeup Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna and her brother Muhammed, four, pose with a friend during the ceremony Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna and Muhammed's mother comforts her Photograph: Susan Schulman

A family member reapplies Lianna's makeup Photograph: Susan Schulman

A weary Lianna and Muhammed Photograph: Susan Schulman

Muhammed takes a rest from the ceremony Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna and a friend wander around the village Photograph: Susan Schulman

Minangkabau women bring food to the ceremony Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna greets village members Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna takes a break from the long day Photograph: Susan Schulman

Lianna and her brother Muhammed with their parents Photograph: Susan Schulman