Courtesan Scarf

The Courtesan's Scarf is one of the subtle ways that the courtesan of Eleaseth convey messages without being disturbed. Not only do they usually designate who is in a room, but what it is being used for, if they can be disturbed, and whether or not they might require assistance. Each Courtesan has their favorite coloring and patterning, so only their staff will really know what means what.   The scarves are left on the door handle of the room they are in or on a coat hanger. Usually somewhere quite obvious. They're long, meticulously embroidered, and colored in bright though not jarring colors. They're meant to be both decorative but informative.  

Copies

Given the elevated status and social significance of Courtesans, replicas and reproductions of the scarves is quite common. The high quality silk and elaborate lace work is missing in these copies, both because it is hard to come by, expensive, and socially taboo to actually own a Courtesan Scarf.   Noble ladies play at importance and the middle class will gift them as tokens of affection.

Manufacturing process

Seamstresses from a specific guild are tasked with the intricate detailing of the scarves and are usually supported by whatever courtesan might favor their work. Schools dot the various Port cities.   There are usually knock-offs that circulate lower courts and gifted amongst the middle class or those 'pretending' at the prestige of the Courtesans. A trained eye can tell the difference between a real scarf and a cheaper substitute.

Significance

Since Courtesans flirt with nobility and are the quiet power in Eleaseth, the scarves they use are a wordless message to those that serve them as to what might be going on behind closed doors. Not all courtesan are just entertainers, as some belong to The Iron Shadow.
Rarity
The silk in and of itself isn't exactly rare, but the significance of the embroidered scarf and it's implication makes the item itself rare in Eleaseth.
Dimensions
4ft - 6ft long
Base Price
Expensive, culturally significant


Cover image: Mandala Lace Fabric by Flavia Minnone

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