The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has brought to public attention a nearly 200-year-old condom, offering a unique glimpse into historical attitudes towards sexuality. The artifact is believed to have originated around 1830, crafted from sheep's appendix. This rare item features an explicit illustration depicting a nun and three clergymen, capturing both the curiosity and humor of an era long past.
Discovered at auction by museum curators Joyce Zelen and her colleague, who were amused that "no-one else noticed it," the condom was obtained and inspected with UV light to confirm it had never been used. "It's in mint condition," Zelen exclaimed, noting the unexpected foot traffic the exhibit has generated since its unveiling.
Zelen explained to BBC News that the condom is thought to be a "luxury souvenir" from a posh brothel in France, one of only two remaining examples of its kind. The Rijksmuseum's exhibition, which features additional prints, drawings, and photographs focused on 19th-century prostitution and sexuality, highlights the complexities of sexual health amid fears of unintended pregnancies and diseases like syphilis.
A particularly striking design element is the printed scene on the condom itself, which humorously portrays the nun with her dress raised, pointing at the clergymen as they hold their habits. The words "Voilà mon choix," which translate to "There is my choice," add a layer of commentary, likening the scene to the mythological story of Paris deciding the fairest goddess.
Museum officials have stated that while their Print Room boasts an impressive collection of 750,000 prints, it remains the only collection to feature a condom print. Zelen expressed an openness to loan the delicate artifact to other museums, adding that the item will be on display until the end of November, inviting visitors of all ages to explore this fascinating intersection of art and societal norms.
Discovered at auction by museum curators Joyce Zelen and her colleague, who were amused that "no-one else noticed it," the condom was obtained and inspected with UV light to confirm it had never been used. "It's in mint condition," Zelen exclaimed, noting the unexpected foot traffic the exhibit has generated since its unveiling.
Zelen explained to BBC News that the condom is thought to be a "luxury souvenir" from a posh brothel in France, one of only two remaining examples of its kind. The Rijksmuseum's exhibition, which features additional prints, drawings, and photographs focused on 19th-century prostitution and sexuality, highlights the complexities of sexual health amid fears of unintended pregnancies and diseases like syphilis.
A particularly striking design element is the printed scene on the condom itself, which humorously portrays the nun with her dress raised, pointing at the clergymen as they hold their habits. The words "Voilà mon choix," which translate to "There is my choice," add a layer of commentary, likening the scene to the mythological story of Paris deciding the fairest goddess.
Museum officials have stated that while their Print Room boasts an impressive collection of 750,000 prints, it remains the only collection to feature a condom print. Zelen expressed an openness to loan the delicate artifact to other museums, adding that the item will be on display until the end of November, inviting visitors of all ages to explore this fascinating intersection of art and societal norms.
