In Japan, hidden away from human eyes, is a colourful entertainment district known as Nyanko-cho. Many mousers and other felines of greatest import frequent the catnip tea houses there. And to help relieve their burdens of a hard day’s hunting and naps are the Maiko and Geiko (professional female cats groomed in the arts of dance, song, and conversation). Their nine lives are spent fine-tuning their skills in what has come to be known as “The Catnip and Pussy Willow World.” Each cat that enters the profession of geisha takes a new name to reflect both her new life and her connection to those who have come before her. The cats of Siamese decent take names beginning with “Sho” and those of Mi-ke (calico) don names with “Tama.”  These are the Maiko and Geiko of the Nyaotaka okiya (geisha household).
 

Welcome to The Catnip and Pussy Willow World. 

I have always been fascinated with Japan and with Geisha.  I made my first Geisha Kitty doll about five years ago.  At the time I knew very little about these talented women and used the Geisha dolls in my collection as reference.  Since then I have studied more and gathered many reference materials to ensure more accurate dolls.  Well, as accurate as one can be when the subject is a cat. 
The Feline Geisha are divided into two categories:  Mini Geisha and Life-size Geisha.
Mini Geisha can be anywhere from 4.5 to 18 inches and are made from clay and Washi papers.  They are more stylized than realistic.  they are made in both three-dimensional and relief styles.
Life-size Geisha are the size of real domestic cats and are carved from foam rubber.  They feature actual fabric kimono.  I have made two to date (neither of which is very accurate) but will be making more sometime this year.  (crosses fingers and aims for summer)  The next Life-size Geisha planned will be Maneki Neko (lucky cat) twins.  Their fabric is Japanese satins and silks purchased in San Francisco.

Prices start at $75.00 for the Mini Geisha and $400.00 for the Life-size Geisha.  The price can increase depending on the pose, accessories, and materials used for each doll.