A photo of two
maiko (apprentice
geisha), with the typical
make-up clearly visible, leaving portions of the
nape uncovered. This is done to accentuate what is a traditionally
erotic area. The white face make-up is supposed to resemble a
mask, and a line of bare skin around the
hairline helps create that illusion. Established geisha generally wear full white face makeup characteristic of maiko only during special performances.
Photo credit: Daniel Bachler