Utamaro Kitagawa

A geisha is pictured on the left-hand side of the print next to the courtesan Karauta, recognisable by her obi sash, which is closed at the front, her hair richly decked with hairpins, and her kimono copiously adorned with elaborate designs. Geishas and courtesans are often mistaken for one another. Although both lived in the nightclub/entertainment districts, there were considerable differences between them. Geishas were professional companions who entertained with music, dance and games. They did not provide sexual services - that was the preserve of the courtesans.