May 2010: Archeological consultation

In the month of May, Prof. Haeberle was consulted by the archeologists Bertram Faensen and Dr. Heike Kennecke who are digging up the foundations of old historical homes in front of  Berlin’s City Hall. At the site of one of these homes they found a Chinese erotic object dating back at least to the 18th century AD. How it found its way to Berlin more than 200 years ago is unclear. A comparison with similar objects from Prof. Haeberle’s private collection suggested a similar purpose – as bridal gifts, they served to illustrate the couple’s marital duties. However, it is also possible that the especially delicate object found in Berlin served as a kind of conversation piece and was simply appreciated for its beauty. The research is continuing at this time.

Archeological site near Berlin City Hall.

Prof. Haeberle, Mr. Faensen, Dr. Kennecke

Chinese object found at the site (exterior).

Chinese object found at the site (interior).

Chinese object from Prof. Haeberle's collection
(exterior)

Chinese object from Prof. Haeberle's collection
(interior)

Erotic object from the collection of Prof. Liu Dalin, China Sex Museum, Tongli.
This object was shown as part of an exhibition of Chinese erotic art
at the Staatsbibliothek Berlin in 1995.