A Historical Look at Dildos: When Were Dildos Invented?

Let’s start by traveling back to some of the earliest known examples of dildos. Archaeologists have found evidence of ancient dildos that date as far back as 28,000 years ago. That’s right—humans have been crafting pleasure devices since the Stone Age! These early dildos were often made from materials like stone, bone, or ivory, and were likely used for sexual pleasure, rituals, or even fertility symbols.

One of the most famous discoveries comes from Germany, where archaeologists unearthed a 28,000-year-old stone dildo made of siltstone. It’s fascinating to think that even our ancient ancestors valued pleasure enough to create tools to enhance it!

A more recent discovery, which is covered in an article by Esmé Louise James highlights just how far back dildos go. In 1992, archaeologists uncovered a 16cm wooden phallus at the Roman fort of Vindolanda in Northumberland, originally thought to be a sewing tool. However, researchers have since revisited the object, and its smooth, well-worn end suggests that it was likely used as a dildo. This wooden phallus is believed to be over 2,000 years old, providing an incredible glimpse into ancient Roman sexuality.

This discovery isn’t an isolated incident either. Phallic objects have been found across various civilizations. Similar items have been discovered in places like Sweden, Pakistan, and Turkey, adding another layer to the historical use of dildos. The Vindolanda find reminds us that the use of sex toys isn’t just a modern concept—it’s been a part of human history for thousands of years.

When it comes to dildo history, the ancient Egyptians and Greeks also had their own takes on these pleasure devices. In ancient Egypt, phallic objects were not uncommon and were sometimes associated with fertility rituals. Though there isn’t concrete evidence of Egyptians using dildos in the same way we do today, phallic symbols played an important role in their culture.

The ancient Greeks, on the other hand, were much more open about their use of dildos. The Greeks made their dildos from a variety of materials, including leather and wood. Some ancient Greek literature even references the use of “olisbos,” which were essentially early dildos used by women for sexual pleasure.

In Aristophanes' Lysistrata (411 BCE), women are advised to use leather dildos to avoid sexual frustration. This shows that dildos weren’t just practical tools but were woven into cultural and social narratives as well.

In ancient China, dildos were made from materials like jade, which was considered a valuable and sacred stone. These toys were sometimes used in sexual practices tied to Taoist beliefs, which emphasized the importance of sexual energy and balance in achieving a harmonious life.

While dildos in ancient China were often made from beautiful materials and had a ritualistic element, they still served the same purpose—enhancing pleasure.

The Middle Ages weren’t exactly the best time for sexual expression, and dildo history reflects that. During this period, the use of sex toys was more hidden due to religious and cultural restrictions. However, that doesn’t mean dildos disappeared altogether—they just became more discreet.

By the time the Renaissance rolled around, dildos made a comeback, especially in Italy, where they were sometimes referred to as “dildo” or “dildoe.” These toys were often made of leather, stuffed with wool or other soft materials, and used by both men and women. Despite their growing popularity, the use of dildos remained somewhat secretive due to societal views on sex and pleasure.

Ancient Rome was known for its sexual liberalism, with phallic symbols appearing frequently in their art and culture. The discovery of the wooden phallus at Vindolanda marks the first such find in Roman history, adding a new chapter to what we know about Roman sexual practices.

Phallic imagery wasn’t just decorative in ancient Rome; it carried deeper cultural and religious significance. The use of this particular wooden object may have been tied to fertility rituals or simply as a tool for sexual pleasure. However, some researchers also caution that such objects weren’t always used exclusively for pleasure—they may have served as instruments of torture or for other ritualistic purposes.

Nonetheless, the Vindolanda discovery adds richness to the broader narrative of how sex toys have been used across different cultures and time periods. The Romans, like many other civilizations, seemed comfortable with phallic imagery and its role in society, offering yet another link between ancient and modern attitudes toward sexuality.

Fast forward to the 19th and early 20th centuries, and we begin to see more documentation and acceptance of dildos as sexual aids. In the Victorian era, doctors sometimes prescribed the use of vibrating devices to women as a treatment for “hysteria,” a supposed medical condition. While these devices weren’t quite like the dildos we know today, they certainly paved the way for more open discussions around sexual pleasure.

By the mid-20th century, attitudes around sex began to shift, and dildos started becoming more mainstream. This was particularly evident during the sexual revolution of the 1960s and 70s, when people began to embrace the idea of sexual pleasure as a natural and healthy part of life. The dildo, in all its forms, became a symbol of sexual liberation, especially for women.

So, when were dildos invented? While we can’t pinpoint an exact date, it’s safe to say that dildos have been around for thousands of years. From the stone tools of ancient times to the high-tech toys of today, dildos have remained a consistent part of human sexuality and pleasure.

Dildo history is a fascinating reflection of how our attitudes toward sex have evolved. What started as simple, sometimes ritualistic objects have transformed into sophisticated, body-safe toys that people use to enhance their pleasure and explore their desires. The Vindolanda discovery only deepens our understanding of how far back this tradition goes, adding another layer to the rich history of sex toys.

Whether you’re using a realistic dildo or a creative fantasy design, it’s exciting to think that you’re part of a long tradition of humans using tools to make pleasure a little more fun.

Happy exploring!