Risque Beauty

This intimate look at the grooming and beauty practices of history's best-known courtesans reveals the secrets behind their famed beauty. Fascinating historical photographs and step-by-step instruction are accompanied by actual period recipes and preparations that the courtesans themselves used and engaging quotes from history's greatest seductresses. Also provided are biographies of each notable courtesan -- how she rose to fame, who her lovers were, and how she fell from glory -- including the stories of Veronica Franco (whose life was told in the film 'Dangerous Beauty'), Mata Hari, Madame Lola Montez (mistress to King Ludwig I of Bavaria), and more.