What is the symbolism of the Geisha?

According to google research, the Geisha is a symbol of "traditional values" in Japanese culture. Gieshas are not seen as women of ill repute as often thought. (Geisha have been confused with the high-class courtesan of the Edo Period known as oiran, from whom they evolved.)

The closest English translation of the proper noun "geisha" would be artist/performing artist.

They are artisans that train for long periods of time (taking many years of work before becoming a full-fledged geisha), therefor they could, in some sense, symbolize perseverance.

There also seems to be a lot of secrecy represented in their lifestyle.