Refers to cunning schemes or deceptive techniques used to manipulate others, often in a negative sense.
courtesan's art of seduction; coquetry
Specifically refers to the techniques used by courtesans in the pleasure quarters to attract or deceive customers. Historical and literary flavor.
He used trickery to deceive his opponent.
I'm fed up with politicians' wiles.
The courtesan used all her arts of seduction to captivate the customer.
wiles; art of coaxing; trickery
The exact derivation is uncertain. The kanji 手 (hand) and 管 (pipe/tube) may suggest 'handling' or 'managing' in a manipulative sense, but this is speculative.