An open lattice (kôshi) separated and made courtesans visible from the street. Only the highest ranking were typically kept out of sight until called upon to meet a client at an ageya or teahouse. Shinzô were lower-ranking prostitutes who also served as attendants of upper courtesans. In the foyer and opposite the magaki lattice partition (a style adapted from public bath) was posted the gyû, a male attendant who acted as watchmen and barker.