Maiko, “dance child,” was the Rokugani name for apprentice geisha, referring to the first art the girl must master. They were recognized by her distinctive facial make-up, her skin white with rice powder, with bright red lips and black eyebrows. Maiko were bonded to their okaasan, who held their contracts until someone else bought them, becoming her servants during the entire time of her training. Experienced geisha mentored the maiko in the manner of older sisters.