T4K3.news

Ancient condom goes on display in Amsterdam

A 200-year-old condom with erotic art is featured at the Rijksmuseum until November.

June 3, 2025 at 05:54 PM

200-year-old condom decorated with erotic art goes on display in Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum

This unique item is part of a provocative exhibition on sex work.

200-year-old condom featured in Rijksmuseum exhibition

The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has introduced a 200-year-old condom adorned with erotic artwork in its latest exhibition, "Safe Sex?" opening this week. Made around 1830 from a sheep's appendix, the condom is believed to have origins linked to the city's Red Light District. The item features an image of a nun accompanied by three clergymen, and the phrase "This is my choice" in French, referencing the Pierre-Auguste Renoir painting, "The Judgment of Paris." The exhibition aims to shed light on 19th century sex work and will run until the end of November.

Key Takeaways

✔️

The condom dates back to around 1830 and is thought to be made from a sheep's appendix.

✔️

It features provocative artwork tied to 19th century themes of sexuality.

✔️

The museum aims to explore the cultural implications of sexual health through this exhibition.

"The condom depicts both the playful and the serious side of sexual health."

This quote from the Rijksmuseum highlights the dual themes present in the display.

"This is my choice is written along the sheath in French."

This phrase adds an element of empowerment to the provocative artwork.

This unusual display highlights the intersection of art, history, and sexual health. By featuring a condom that blurs the lines between playful and serious themes, the Rijksmuseum invites visitors to confront the complexities of sexual health and societal attitudes toward sex work in the past. This could spark discussions not only about historical practices but also about contemporary views on sexuality and health.