Japan: Ukiyo-e triptych showing three courtesans (shin yoshiwara). Centre section: Sugatano from Ebiya house on Kyo Street, c. 1848-1868. Oiran were the courtesans of Edo period Japan. The oiran were considered a type of yūjo 'woman of pleasure' or prostitute. However, they were distinguished from the yūjo in that they were entertainers, and many became celebrities of their times outside the pleasure districts. Their art and fashions often set trends among the wealthy.

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Size: 3500px × 5204px
Photo credit: © Pictures From History / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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