An astonishing find from 1830, this unique artifact captivates visitors with its explicit design and intriguing backstory.
Ancient Condom Displayed at Rijksmuseum: A Glimpse into 19th Century Sexuality
Ancient Condom Displayed at Rijksmuseum: A Glimpse into 19th Century Sexuality
The Rijksmuseum unveils a rare 200-year-old condom, shedding light on historical sexual health and practices.
In a remarkable showcase of history, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has unveiled a nearly 200-year-old condom, touted as being in "mint condition." Dating back to around 1830, the condom is made from sheep's appendix and features an explicit print of a nun and three clergymen. This obscure artifact was acquired by the museum at an auction last year and is now a key piece of their exhibition focusing on 19th Century prostitution and sexuality, which includes various prints, drawings, and photographs.
Curator Joyce Zelen expressed her surprise and amusement upon discovering the condom at auction, noting that it was overlooked by other bidders. After purchasing the item, the museum team inspected it using UV light and confirmed its unused state. Zelen remarked, "It's in mint condition," and the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive since the display opened.
The historical artifact is believed to have originated as a "luxury souvenir" from a prominent brothel in France, with only two known examples of its kind still existing. The condom serves as a conversation piece, addressing both the lighter and darker aspects of sexual health during a time when concerns over unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis were prevalent.
Notably, the explicit print depicts a nun provocatively positioned before the three clergymen, with the inscription "Voilà mon choix," translating to "There is my choice." The depiction is interpreted as a parody of celibacy and the Greek mythological tale of the Judgement of Paris, where a Trojan Prince must choose the fairest goddess among Aphrodite, Hera, and Athena.
Zelen highlighted that this is the first instance of a printed condom in their extensive collection of 750,000 prints, drawings, and photographs. She also noted their openness to loan the delicate artifact to other museums while acknowledging the need for careful preservation. The condom will be on display until the end of November, continuing to attract curious visitors eager to learn more about the intersections of art and sexuality throughout history.
