Toshimana by the window – She stands calmly, showing the special quality of Geiko (and some senior maiko) in which their years of practice of dance and other arts eventually becomes fully embodied. Each stance or movement is ‘just so’ – considered, elegant and balanced. Perhaps this skill for embodied grace is their strongest art.

Image from Robert Van Koesveld’s book Geiko and Maiko of Kyoto now on Kickstarter here: www.kickstarter.com/projects/robertvankoesveld/geiko-and-maiko-of-kyoto