2025-06-03T15:55:00Z

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In a fascinating blend of art and history, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has unveiled a unique and rather provocative artifact: a condom that dates back nearly 200 years. This rare piece, believed to have been created around 1830, stands out not only for its age but also for the intricate erotic art that adorns it. The museum has highlighted its significant cultural context, particularly its connection to the city's infamous Red Light District.

The condom, crafted from the appendix of a sheep, is part of a larger exhibition titled “Safe Sex?” which delves into the complex world of 19th-century sex work. This exhibition opened to the public on Tuesday and aims to provoke thought and discussion about sexual health and practices in historical contexts.

According to the museum's statement, this playful yet serious artifact captures both the light-hearted and grave aspects of sexual health. What makes this particular condom even more intriguing is the artwork on its surface, which features a bold depiction of a nun alongside three clergymen. This imagery not only evokes humor but also raises questions about sexuality and morality during that era.

Curiously, the condom is inscribed with the phrase “Cette est ma choix,” which translates to “This is my choice” in French. This phrase serves as a nod to the famous painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir titled “The Judgment of Paris,” where the Trojan prince Paris is depicted making a decision in a beauty contest among three goddesses. The connection between the two works invites deeper reflections on themes of choice, desire, and societal norms surrounding sexuality.

Visitors to the Rijksmuseum will have the opportunity to view this extraordinary artifact until the end of November, providing a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to engage with the complex narratives surrounding sex and health through the ages.