This unique artefact, dating back to 1830, explores the complexities of 19th-century sexuality and the perils of sexual health controversies.
**Ancient Condom Dazzles Visitors at Rijksmuseum Exhibition**
**Ancient Condom Dazzles Visitors at Rijksmuseum Exhibition**
An astonishing 200-year-old condom, preserved in "mint condition," now greets guests at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.
In a surprising twist of historical revival, the Rijksmuseum unveiled a condom dating back approximately 200 years, captivating museum-goers with its pristine condition. Made from a sheep's appendix, this rare piece is on display as part of an exhibition examining 19th-century prostitution and sexuality intricacies. The condom features an explicit print depicting a nun alongside three clergymen, a visual parody of societal norms regarding celibacy and desire.
Curator Joyce Zelen shared with the BBC that when she and her team first discovered the condom at an auction last year, they were met with laughter and disbelief, as other bidders overlooked this unique find. Under UV light, the museum confirmed it was unused, leading them to describe its condition as "mint." This bold piece of history has drawn crowds of all ages since its introduction, receiving overwhelmingly positive responses.
Believed to be a "luxury souvenir" from an elite French brothel, the condom is one of only two known to have survived through the centuries. The explicit imagery, with its inscription "Voilà mon choix" (French for "There is my choice"), provokes thought on historical attitudes towards sexual health, particularly given the rampant fears surrounding syphilis and unwanted pregnancies during the era.
Notably, the Rijksmuseum claims this condom as the first printed exemplar within their vast collection of 750,000 prints, drawings, and photographs. Due to its delicate nature, the museum is open to extending loans for the artefact but remains cautious about subjecting it to further handling. The condom will be on display until the end of November, continuing to stir curiosity and conversation about the interplay of art, sexuality, and health through the ages.
Curator Joyce Zelen shared with the BBC that when she and her team first discovered the condom at an auction last year, they were met with laughter and disbelief, as other bidders overlooked this unique find. Under UV light, the museum confirmed it was unused, leading them to describe its condition as "mint." This bold piece of history has drawn crowds of all ages since its introduction, receiving overwhelmingly positive responses.
Believed to be a "luxury souvenir" from an elite French brothel, the condom is one of only two known to have survived through the centuries. The explicit imagery, with its inscription "Voilà mon choix" (French for "There is my choice"), provokes thought on historical attitudes towards sexual health, particularly given the rampant fears surrounding syphilis and unwanted pregnancies during the era.
Notably, the Rijksmuseum claims this condom as the first printed exemplar within their vast collection of 750,000 prints, drawings, and photographs. Due to its delicate nature, the museum is open to extending loans for the artefact but remains cautious about subjecting it to further handling. The condom will be on display until the end of November, continuing to stir curiosity and conversation about the interplay of art, sexuality, and health through the ages.
