Amsterdam rejoices in more than simply its famous canals and its
celebrated collections of the works of Rembrandt, Vermeer and
Van Gogh. It has a museum dedicated to the Goddess of Love,
which welcomes no fewer than 500,000 visitors a year.
From all over the world people come in their thousands to this
unusual establishment known as “The Temple of Venus”.
First put on display together in 1985 by Monique van Marle and her
father, this collection of erotic works is exceptional for the quality of
the objects exhibited, its engravings and its photographs of yesteryear.
Far from being a focus for voyeuristic prurience, the Museum is
intended to be understood as a serious centre for the history of erotic art.
This book takes us on a guided tour of this fascinating place devoted
to a fascinating subject.