Gitana Paper Mache Skull by Ricardo Pustanio

Gitana Paper Mache Skull by Ricardo Pustanio – From the Original First Series (1 of 100)

This breathtaking papier-mâché skull sculpture, crowned with beaded jewelry and seated atop an ornate cobalt and silver pedestal, embodies the enduring spirit of La Gitana—the Gypsy spiritual guide revered across spiritual traditions for her mysticism, sensuality, protection, and deep ancestral knowing.

Crafted by world-renowned artist Ricardo Pustanio, this Gitana skull is one of the original 100 skulls ever made, part of the inaugural series that debuted in 2021. Originally created by request of Sallie Ann Glassman for the altar windows at the New Orleans Healing Center, these skulls mark the birth of a now-global artistic and spiritual movement.

This piece channels the Gitana spirit—a guiding force in Espiritismo and other Afro-Caribbean traditions, known for her love of dance, divination, fire, beauty, and justice. She is often called upon for:

• Psychic insight and dreamwork
• Cleansing, uncrossing, and removing envy
• Empowerment of the feminine spirit
• Magical travel, protection, and passion

Adorned in metal filigree and draped in enchanted beadwork, this skull radiates with mystery and movement. Each detail honors La Gitana’s path as both seer and protector, lover and fighter, dancing through both shadow and light.

🎭 About the Artist

Ricardo Pustanio is internationally acclaimed for his sacred skulls, Vodou installations, and ritual art. From 1999 to 2020, he helmed the Krewe of Mid-City in New Orleans, creating mythic Mardi Gras floats before turning his vision toward sacred sculpture. He is also the visionary behind the International Shrine of Marie Laveau. His skulls have been requested by the International Museum of Arts and Civilisations of Vodun in Benin, affirming his global legacy.

✨ Details:

• One of the original 100 skulls made in 2021
• Represents La Gitana / The Gypsy Guide
• Hand-sculpted papier-mâché skull
• Set atop enameled cobalt blue and filigree metal pedestal
• Dimensions: 16" x 6" x 8"
• Crowned with beaded jewelry and charms
• Ideal for altars, mediumship, or spiritual display

🔮Own a living altar piece of magic, movement, and deep feminine knowing.