The World of Courtesans c12.83

c12.83

confine myself to the description of some particulars. Behind the *darab-Khaneh* is a sort of bazar, which is more than three hundred *gaz* in length and more than twenty in breadth. On the two sides are ranged chambers and estrades; in front of these are erected in the form of thrones several platforms constructed in beautiful stones. On the two sides of the avenue formed by the chambers are represented figures of lions, panthers, tigers, and other animals. All are so well drawn, and their movements have so natural an appearance, that you would think that these animals were alive. Immediately after the midday prayer they place before the doors of the chambers, which are decorated with extreme magnificence, thrones and chairs on which the courtesans seat themselves. Each of these women is bedecked with pearls and gems of great value, and is dressed in costly raiments. They are all extremely young and of perfect beauty. Each of them has by her side two young slaves, who give the signal of pleasure, and have the charge of attending to everything which can contribute to amusements. Any man may enter their locality, and select any girl that pleases him, and take his pleasure with her. Anything that he carries with him is delivered into the keeping of those engaged in the service of the houses of prostitution, and if anything is lost, these latter are responsible for it "