Sellers need to have some sensitivity about the issue of calling every Japanese female in a photo a "Geisha". To do so is the same as calling *every* Anglo female in a photo a policewoman or a Playboy Bunny! Two major points: 1) "Geisha" is a PROFESSION, not an ethnic gender identification. 2) Geishas are NOT prostitutes, they were/are highly paid professional entertainers and companions, trained in arts and conversation. There were/are very, very few Geishas ever, in comparison to the population. While some Geishas became "kept" women of very powerful or wealthy patrons, the profession was not populated by promiscuous women. There were/are prostitutes in Japan, and they are just that - prostitutes, NOT Geishas. To be a genuine Geisha is rare and unique. So please have a care about calling Japanese women, especially those in traditional dress on antique postcards and photos, "Geishas". Domo Arigato!
Guide created: 06/05/07 (updated 05/22/08)
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