Dating back to 1830, this unique condom, featuring provocative imagery, is currently captivating visitors at the Rijksmuseum, representing a blend of sexual history and artistry.
A 200-Year-Old Condom on Display: A Unique Artefact of 19th Century Sexuality
A 200-Year-Old Condom on Display: A Unique Artefact of 19th Century Sexuality
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam showcases a rare, well-preserved condom, shedding light on historical attitudes toward sexuality and health.
An extraordinary exhibit at Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum features a nearly 200-year-old condom that has been described as being in "mint condition." Dated to around 1830, this remarkable item is made from sheep's appendix and is known for its explicit design, which portrays a nun and three clergymen in a provocative scene. Acquired at auction last year, the condom is part of an exhibition dedicated to 19th Century prostitution and societal views on sexuality, accompanied by various prints, drawings, and photographs.
Curator Joyce Zelen recounted the amusing moment when she and her colleague discovered the condom while bidding at an auction. "We were laughing," she said, noting that they were the sole bidders on the item, which had gone unnoticed by others. After careful inspection with UV light confirmed that the condom had never been used, Ms. Zelen declared, "It's in mint condition." Since its introduction into the exhibition, the museum has seen a remarkable influx of visitors intrigued by this historical piece.
According to museum experts, the condom likely served as a "luxury souvenir" from a high-end brothel in France, with only two known examples surviving today. The exhibit aims to highlight the complexities of sexual health during a time marked by concerns over unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, particularly syphilis. The condom features a print with an inscription that translates to "There is my choice," reflecting a satirical take on themes of celibacy and judgment in mythology.
Interestingly, the Rijksmuseum's Print Room collection houses approximately 750,000 works, yet this condom is regarded as a singular example of a printed condom in art. Ms. Zelen indicated an openness to loan the delicate artifact to other institutions but emphasized the need for careful handling. The unique exhibit will remain on display until the end of November, offering a fascinating glimpse into the cultural history of sexuality.
