An extraordinary artefact, a nearly 200-year-old condom, is currently being showcased at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Dated around 1830, this condom is crafted from a sheep's appendix and is adorned with an explicit illustration of a nun alongside three clergymen, depicting a striking blend of humor and societal commentary of its time.
Acquired at an auction last year, museum curator Joyce Zelen recounted how she and a colleague were initially amused when they discovered the condom, noting that no other bidders seemed interested. After purchasing it, they examined the item with UV light and confirmed that it was unused and "in mint condition."
This condom takes center stage in an exhibition that explores 19th-century prostitution and sexual attitudes. Zelen explained that it is believed to have been a "luxury souvenir" from a high-end French brothel, and it's one of only two known surviving examples. The rare condom serves as a juxtaposition of the era's lighter and darker contexts surrounding sexual health, which was complicated by the threat of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis.
The explicit imagery includes the nun provocatively positioned in front of the clergymen, provoking both laughter and reflection. The inscription "Voilà mon choix," meaning "Here is my choice," serves as a parody, engaging with themes of celibacy and mythology, particularly referencing the Judgement of Paris from Greek lore.
According to the museum, which boasts a collection of around 750,000 prints, drawings, and photographs, this condom marks a significant addition as it is the first instance of a printed condom in their collection. Zelen confirmed that they are open to loaning this delicate item to other institutions while it remains on display until the end of November. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with numerous visitors flocking to see this unique piece of history.
