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Geisha and Courtesan: Role/Occupation
 Company for men
In the Edo Period (1615-1868 A.D.), both geisha and courtesans perpetuated the image of the floating world, or ukiyo, by creating a place of government-sanctioned leisure, relaxation, and sexual freedom. Because of the high prices attached to their services, geisha and courtesans were often linked to men from the upper tier of society, ranging from generals and samurais, to powerful businessmen. While courtesans were akin to high-class prostitutes, geisha and their sexual favors were never explicitly for sale. However, a geisha could have a loyal client who then in turn became her long-term patron, or danna. Unlike courtesans, geisha's official role was to entertain and stimulate their male customers through conversation, games, and their in-depth knowledge of the arts--a role that still exists today.
The picture above depicts a courtesan with customers in a brothel. It is a representation of a real-life event that occurred during the artist's day in the Edo period. For commentary, click on the above picture.
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