Prostitution in China is certainly as old as human life in that part of the world. But as a
thorough-going
institutionalised form it can first be dated to the Feudal Period of 841-221 B.C. At that time
the aristocracy keep
huge numbers of courtesans, paid companions, actors and musicians, not merely for use but as
status symbols.
The courtesans were chosen for abilities which could be sexual, musical, poetic, etc.