Rijksmuseum's Erotic Nun Condom Contemporary Art Piece Sparks Protest from Christian Organisation
In the heart of Amsterdam, the Rijksmuseum is currently hosting an exhibit that delves into a fascinating period of Dutch history. The show, which focuses on societal issues during a time when prostitution was legal and public health efforts were aimed at curbing rampant syphilis, has recently stirred controversy.
At the centre of the commotion is a 200-year-old condom made from sheep intestine, a part of the museum's collection of works on paper. The condom, adorned with an erotic illustration of a seated nun and three clergymen, is believed to be one of only two known examples to have survived.
The caption beneath the condom's illustration reads "Voilà mon choix," a lascivious parody of the Judgement of Paris myth. The group that co-curated the exhibit, led by Joyce Zelen, claims the condom was originally created as anti-Catholic propaganda during the French Revolution. However, there is no direct historical evidence or well-documented record supporting this claim.
Zelen sees the controversy as misplaced and believes that mocking religion is a form of humor. The Dutch right-wing outlet, on the other hand, suggested that similar satire involving Mohammed would be "unthinkable" in the museum.
The protest against the display of the condom was organized by Stichting Civitas Christiana and its youth wing TFP Student Action Europe. Eleven demonstrators picketed outside the museum, and a circulation of 5,000 flyers was distributed.
Despite the controversy, the condom will remain on view through November at the Rijksmuseum. The exhibit serves as a reminder of the museum's commitment to presenting history in all its complexity, even when it may be uncomfortable or provocative.
Historically, sheep intestine condoms, along with those made from other animal tissues, were used as protective barriers during intercourse well before the advent of rubber or latex. Their display in museum collections today usually serves to highlight medical, social, or technological history rather than political messaging.
While the connection between the Rijksmuseum's condom and the French Revolution as anti-Catholic propaganda remains unproven, the exhibit offers a unique glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of Dutch history, shedding light on societal issues and public health efforts during a time when such topics were often taboo.
[1] TikTok posts discussing the 200-year-old condom in the Rijksmuseum. [2] News articles reporting on the controversy surrounding the exhibit. [3] The Rijksmuseum's official statement on the exhibit. [4] Historical literature on the use of animal-tissue condoms in Europe.
- The controversial 200-year-old condom, displayed at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, has sparked numerous discussions on TikTok, where users share their opinions about its provocative imagery and historical significance.
- Numerous news articles have reported on the ongoing controversy surrounding the Rijksmuseum exhibit, delving into the debate over the condom's connection to anti-Catholic propaganda during the French Revolution and depictions of religion in art.
- In its official statement, the Rijksmuseum has emphasized the exhibit's aim to present history authentically, even when it may be uncomfortable or contentious, affirming their commitment to promoting an accurate understanding of the past.
- For those interested in the historical use of animal-tissue condoms, delving into literature on this topic can provide valuable insights into medical, social, and technological aspects of European history during the pre-rubber era.
