Museum Exhibit Sparks Outrage Over Controversial Condom

Foundation Protests Risqué Display at Rijksmuseum

The display of a historical condom at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has stirred controversy, causing a Catholic foundation to strongly object to the exhibit, which explores themes of sexuality and prostitution. Protests have been planned, and the group is demanding the artifact’s removal.

Controversial Imagery and Protests

The contentious item, dating from the era of the French Revolution, is displayed as part of an exhibition focusing on 19th-century life. Hugo Bos, a spokesperson for Civitas Christiana, explained that his organization is fighting “for the victory of the Christian traditions, the family and the freedom of the Netherlands.”

“At the time, such images were consciously used to mock the Catholic Church and to set up the people against faith. That the Rijksmuseum now promotes something like that as a artwork is downright outrageous,”

—Bos, Spokesperson for Civitas Christiana

The foundation has voiced their opposition online for weeks, but has now held demonstrations outside the museum. Museums often face difficult choices in striking a balance between artistic freedom and public sensibilities; a recent poll showed that roughly 60% of Americans support museums’ rights to showcase controversial artworks (Pew Research, 2024).

Museum’s Response

The Rijksmuseum has responded that the object is displayed in a historical setting. The museum notes the condom offers insight into sexuality and prostitution in the 19th century. The museum does not have any plans to remove the item from its collection. The exhibition is scheduled to remain open until November.

The dispute highlights the ongoing tension between religious groups and cultural institutions concerning artistic expression and historical context. The Catholic Foundation will continue with its actions until the condom is taken down.