Historic Condom from 1830 Showcased at Rijksmuseum Exhibition

The Rijksmuseum has unveiled a rare condom dating back to 1830 as part of its exhibition on 19th Century prostitution and sexuality. Described as being in "mint condition," this unique artefact showcases both humor and the serious themes of sexual health in the past.

An almost 200-year-old condom, described as being in "mint condition," has been prominently displayed at an exhibition in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Thought to be crafted from a sheep's appendix, the artefact features an explicit print depicting a nun and three clergymen, dating back to approximately 1830. The museum acquired this rare item at an auction last year and it is part of a broader exhibit dedicated to exploring 19th Century prostitution and sexual practices. Accompanying the display are various prints, drawings, and photographs that reflect the era.

Rijksmuseum curator Joyce Zelen shared with the BBC that the reaction among her and her colleague when they initially spotted the condom at auction was one of amusement. They noted that "no-one else noticed it," making them the sole bidders for this curious item. Upon its arrival, the condom was examined using UV light, revealing that it had not been previously used; thus, its pristine condition was confirmed.

Since the exhibit's opening, attendance has surged as both young and older visitors flock to see the unusual display, with Zelen remarking that the public response has been overwhelming. The curator elaborated that this condom is speculated to have served as a "luxury souvenir" from an upscale brothel in France, and currently, only two such surviving examples are known in existence.

The Rijksmuseum further explores the complicated relationship between sexual pleasure and the fears regarding unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, particularly syphilis, in the 19th century. The explicit image shows the nun provocatively posed in front of three clergymen who hold up their habits while she gestures at them, accompanied by the inscription "Voilà mon choix," which translates to "There is my choice." This print is considered a parody that intertwines themes of celibacy and references to the Greek myth of Paris.

Despite its delicate nature, the museum remains open to loaning the artefact to other institutions, noting that this is the first of its kind within their extensive Print Room collection of approximately 750,000 prints, drawings, and photographs. The condom will be featured in the exhibition until the end of November.