Clad in a patchwork of fur, straw, and bone, this elderly tribeswoman serves as the revered witch doctor of a nomadic tribe wandering ancient Europe. With wild hair and ritual paint, she clutches two large seashells—sacred tools in her practice. These shells channel her rare gift: restoring fertility to those who seek her aid. Feared and respected, she is keeper of ancestral magic, guiding her people through the mysteries of birth, healing, and survival.

Photographed at the 2014 Zinneke parade event in Brussels, Belgium. The image was retouched and a blended texture was added to achieve a painterly effect. (May 2014)

• My other portraits and scenes from the Zinneke Parade