Jun 04, 2025
1830s Erotic Condom Shocks Amsterdam Museumgoers
A nearly 200-year-old condom, crafted from sheep's appendix, is now on display at Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum
The condom features a provocative illustration: a nun confronting three aroused clergymen, challenging religious celibacy norms
Inscribed with "Voilà mon choix" ("This is my choice"), the piece satirizes the concept of celibacy and possibly references the Judgment of Paris myth
Believed to originate from a high-end Parisian brothel, this condom served more as a novelty item than a functional contraceptive
Measuring under eight inches, UV testing confirms the condom was never used, preserving its intricate design
Only two such printed condoms are known to exist today, highlighting the unique intersection of art and sexual health in history
The museum purchased the artifact at a Haarlem auction for €1,000, with no other bidders showing interest
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