CONDITION USED GOOD, THE WORLD OF COURTESANS, HARDCOVER, 1973

This book delves into the rich and nuanced history of courtesans in ancient India, presenting them not merely as entertainers but as influential figures in art, culture, and society. Drawing from literary, historical, and archaeological sources—including Buddhist and Jain texts, the Kāmasūtra, and accounts from the Mauryan and Gupta periods—it explores the courtesans’ roles in urban life, their artistic accomplishments, and their social significance. Through a thoughtful narrative, the book traces the evolution of this unique institution and its eventual decline in medieval India, offering readers a deeper understanding of a fascinating yet often overlooked aspect of Indian heritage.