The Regency Era courtesan was considered a highly prized possession for many wealthy men during the late 18th century and early 19th century in England. A courtesan was a high-class prostitute and companion to those that could afford her services. She had to be well-versed in current affairs and cultural topics, possess good looks, and preferably be a capable musician or dancer. In addition to her sexual services, courtesans were also expected to provide emotional support and companionship, to show wit and intelligence, and to be good conversationalists. In essence, they had to provide society with superior companionship in order to be considered elite. The role of the courtesan was to provide her clients with whatever they desired, which could range from providing sex to giving emotional support. Her presence was often seen as a status symbol and a source of social prestige. Although courtesans had numerous admirers, any form of romantic attachment between her and her client was almost nonexistent, as the primary focus was on simply providing services for money. Courtesans of the Regency era were usually esteemed for their luxurious lifestyles, glamorous clothing, and artistic abilities. In a time before the more modern concept of divorce existed, courtesans. gave men the opportunity to have a relationship with a woman in a way that was closer to what could be found in marriage. It is estimated that around 20-30% of the money spent on luxury items during the Regency era went to courtesans and their extravagant lifestyles. Courtesans provided their clients with a sense of companionship, and the relationship offered a delicacy that the era's social norms did not permit in conventional relationships. Although these relationships were seldom long-lasting, the courtesan provided her client with a source of pleasure and a sense of status.