Key Points

• The use of sex toys is evident in human history back to ancient Egypt and Mesoamerica.
• Modern sex toys emerged during the sexually repressed Victorian era of the 19th century.
• The Roaring Twenties brought about a sexual revolution, marked by people feeling more sexually liberated and exploring the use of “personal massagers.”
• Sex toys continue to become more innovative and widely available to bring pleasure to people of all genders, sexualities, and nationalities.

In school, you learn about cave paintings, tools for hunting, and the basic ways of life of ancient civilizations. Did you know ancient civilizations even had sex toys? That’s right, they were horny just like us! Discover the fascinating history of the human need for sexual pleasure and feel more confident in your desire to order that new high-tech vibrator you’ve had your eye on.

Ancient Origins: Intimate Toys in Early Civilizations

The need for sexual pleasure has been part of human nature for as long as humans have existed. Sex toys have a long and varied history, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations. Ancient sex toys often served both recreational and ritualistic purposes. They were used for sexual pleasure, fertility ceremonies, and sometimes as offerings to deities.

Attitudes towards sexuality and sexual aids varied greatly from culture to culture, with some being more accepting and open than others. While the materials and designs of sex toys have evolved significantly over the centuries, the fundamental human interest in sexual pleasure and the creation of tools to enhance it have remained constant throughout history.

Ancient Egypt (c. 3000 BCE - 30 BCE)

The Egyptians famously used various sexual aids. Some of the earliest examples include objects made of stone, wood, or leather that were for both female and male pleasure. These ancient sex toys were often quite ornate and included representations of the god Bes, a deity associated with sexuality and fertility.

Ancient Greece (c. 800 BCE - 146 BCE)

The Greeks had a more open attitude towards sexuality than many other ancient civilizations. They crafted dildos from materials like wood and ivory. These objects, known as “olisbos,” were meant for sexual pleasure as well as for medical purposes. They were often mentioned in Greek literature and art.

Ancient Rome (c. 753 BCE - 476 CE)

Like the Greeks, the Romans embraced sexual pleasure with a variety of sex toys. They created dildos made of materials such as stone, wood, and leather. The famous poet Ovid even mentioned them in his works.

Ancient China (c. 16th century BCE onwards)

Ancient Chinese culture had a long history of sexual devices. One of the most well-known Chinese sex toys was the “butterfly,” a butterfly-shaped object with wings that would flap when manipulated. These included various materials like bronze, jade, and wood.

According to an expert on the history of sex toys, Hannah McKennett, “Going as far back as the ancient Han Dynasty, Chinese aristocrats enjoyed artfully crafted jade butt plugs and bronze strap-ons. The butt plugs were apparently used by embalmers to prevent bodily essences, like chi from leaving the body. Many of the strap-ons were light and used for either men or women and were bespoke.”

Ancient India (c. 1500 BCE onwards)

Ancient Indian culture, as documented in texts like the Kama Sutra, had a sophisticated understanding of sexual pleasure. The use of sexual aids was popular, including dildos made from materials like gold, silver, and wood. These were often referred to as “lingam” or “shivling.”

Ancient Mesoamerica (c. 2000 BCE - 1500 CE)

For Mesoamerican cultures like the Aztecs and Mayans, sexual pleasure was an important aspect of life. Archaeological findings suggest the use of various sexual devices made from stone and other materials.

Ancient Japan (c. 8th century CE onwards)

Japanese culture has a long history of sexual art and literature. They used various types of sex toys, including wooden and stone dildos, which were sometimes intricately carved and decorated.

Victorian Era and the Birth of Modern Intimate Toys

The Victorian era, from 1837 to 1901 in the United Kingdom, had a strict code of sexual morality and modesty. It was a period characterized by a repressive attitude towards sexuality and a strong emphasis on public decorum. Consequently, discussions of sex toys during this era were typically kept private and hidden from the public eye.

The Victorian era’s repressive attitudes towards sexuality didn’t eliminate the use of sex toys. Instead, it pushed them underground and into more discreet settings — you always want what you can’t have!

To maintain the illusion of modesty, some early vibrators were cleverly disguised as household appliances, marketed as massage machines or even as “personal massagers” without explicitly mentioning their sexual function. These early sex toys laid the foundation for future developments in sexual pleasure devices, which became more accessible and diverse in design in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Innovative Designs

Despite the Victorian era’s prudish reputation, there were innovations in the design and manufacturing of sex toys during this period. Manufacturers created a variety of devices for sexual stimulation, often marketed as medical devices or aids to relieve ailments like female hysteria (a fake diagnosis for a variety of symptoms, including anxiety, nervousness, and horniness).

One of the most notable developments during the Victorian era was the invention of early vibrators. These devices were often powered by hand cranking or manual operation and were initially intended for medical treatment. Physicians sometimes used vibrators to treat female patients for symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and hysteria.

Victorian-era sex toys used materials like wood, metal, or rubber. They had basic designs compared to modern sex toys and were often quite large and heavy by 21st-century standards. These designs set the basis for modern sex toys, serving as inspiration for newer, more technologically advanced models. Many of these early sex toys are now considered collectibles, housed in museums or private collections of antique erotic artifacts.

The Roaring Twenties to the Sexual Revolution

The Roaring Twenties, also known as the Jazz Age, was a period of significant cultural and social change in the 1920s in the United States and Europe. During this era, there were notable developments in various aspects of society, including attitudes towards sexuality and the availability of sex toys.

The Roaring Twenties sparked a sexual revolution, increasing the availability of sexual devices. While sex toys were not yet openly discussed or widely accepted, they began to move out of the shadows and into the marketplace, setting the stage for the later sexual revolution of the 1960s and 1970s.

Changing Attitudes Towards Sexuality

The 1920s marked a departure from the repressive Victorian era. The First World War had a profound impact on society, and there was a general shift towards more liberal and open attitudes towards sexuality. The influence of popular culture, including films, literature, and the growing flapper culture, contributed to changing perceptions of sexuality and the acceptance of pleasure-seeking behaviors.

The Roaring Twenties saw the emergence of feminist movements and discussions about women’s sexual autonomy and pleasure. This cultural shift also contributed to a more open dialogue about sex.

The Prohibition era, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, led to the rise of underground speakeasies and a more liberated social atmosphere. These venues often catered to sexual exploration and entertainment.

While the Roaring Twenties were significant for their cultural shifts, the subsequent Great Depression and World War II temporarily stifled many aspects of societal change. It wasn’t until the post-war period, in the mid-20th century, that further advancements in sex toys and sexual liberation occurred.

Early Commercialization

While sex toys were still taboo to many, there were efforts to commercialize them during the 1920s. Manufacturers started producing a wider range of devices, often marketing them as personal massagers or health and wellness aids rather than explicitly sexual items.

The electric vibrator, developed in the late 19th century as a medical device, continued to gain popularity during the 1920s. These devices were becoming more widely available, often through mail-order catalogs and discreet sales channels.

Although electric vibrators were initially for medical purposes, they were increasingly popular for sexual pleasure during the Roaring Twenties. This transition was partly due to the discretion afforded by electric vibrators compared to manual ones.

The packaging and marketing of sex toys during this era often emphasized their novelty and discretion. Vibrators and other sexual devices were thought to be modern conveniences and lifestyle products.

The Technological Leap: Intimate Toys in the Digital Age

The digital age of the 20th century brought about significant changes and innovations in the realm of sex toys. There were transformations in the design, functionality, and accessibility of these pleasure devices. Innovations reflected changing societal attitudes toward sexual pleasure, empowerment, and inclusivity. With the integration of technology, sex toys became more versatile, discreet, and user-friendly, setting the stage for continued evolution in the 21st century.

1950s - 1960s

The 1950s and 1960s continued the development of electric vibrators, often marketed as personal massagers. Vibrators became known as relaxation aids and appeared in women’s magazines with discreet advertisements. The Hitachi Magic Wand, introduced in the 1960s, was an iconic product of the time and is still popular in 2023.

1970s - 1980s

The 1970s saw a shift in societal attitudes towards sexuality. Traditional norms and taboos surrounding sex began to loosen, and discussions about sex and sexual pleasure became more open. The birth control pill became more available, giving women autonomy over their bodies for reproductive choices and sexual liberation.

The concept of “free love” gained popularity, advocating the idea that individuals have the freedom to engage in sexual relationships without societal constraints or judgments. This decade also brought visibility and acceptance of alternative sexual practices and lifestyles, including the LGBTQ+ movement and the exploration of kink and BDSM.

Battery-powered vibrators became increasingly common. Their marketing shifted towards sexual pleasure as opposed to their previous marketing as medical devices. Finally, people were encouraged to find pleasure!

Sex shops and adult boutiques emerged, providing more options for consumers. People could not only see the product in person before purchasing it, but they could buy it immediately without ordering through a mail-order catalog and risking the package’s interception by nosey family members. Erotic entertainment also became available during this time, including the release of explicit films like Deep Throat and Behind the Green Door. These films, though controversial, contributed to the normalization of discussions about sexual pleasure.

The sexual revolution of this time laid the groundwork for later discussions and advancements in sexual health, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and the acceptance of diverse sexual practices. Its legacy continues to shape modern discussions about sexual freedom and empowerment.

1990s

The 1990s marked a continuation of the sexual liberation that gained momentum in previous decades, and the sex toy industry continued to evolve. There was a gradual reduction in the stigma associated with sex toys. As discussions about sexuality became more open and inclusive, sex toys became legitimate tools for enhancing sexual pleasure and exploration.

During this time, manufacturers began incorporating new materials, such as body-safe silicone, into their products. Battery-powered vibrators continued to grow in popularity. The increasing availability of the internet changed the way people accessed and purchased sex toys. The sex toy industry expanded its product offerings to cater to diverse preferences, genders, and orientations. A wide range of shapes, sizes, and functionalities became available to accommodate different desires and needs.

Feminism continued to play a pivotal role in the sexual liberation movement. Many feminists advocated for women’s sexual autonomy, which included the use of sex toys as a means of self-discovery and pleasure. Discussions about sexual empowerment and self-love became more prominent, encouraging individuals to explore their desires and preferences without shame. Erotic literature and media grew, contributing to the normalization of sexual exploration and the use of sex toys.

2000s

The 2000s continued the trends of sexual liberation and the evolution of sex toys. Innovations included more powerful and varied vibration patterns, wireless remote controls, and smartphone app connectivity for remote or long-distance use. More gender-neutral and gender-inclusive sex toys became available.

Sex toys gained more mainstream acceptance during this decade. Popular TV shows and movies mentioned them or featured them, further normalizing their use.

The internet continued to revolutionize the sex toy industry. Online retailers offer a wide range of products, allowing customers to shop discreetly and access a broader selection. Sex toys became more accessible to a global audience thanks to international shipping and e-commerce platforms. This accessibility allowed individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore their sexual desires and preferences.

Luxury and premium sex toy brands, such as LELO, We-Vibe, and JIMMYJANE, gained popularity during the 2000s. These companies focused on high-quality materials, innovative design, and a more sophisticated marketing approach.

The use of eco-friendly and body-safe materials, such as medical-grade silicone, glass, and stainless steel, became a priority for manufacturers. Rechargeable batteries became standard, reducing environmental impact.

The 2000s saw a growing emphasis on sexual wellness and education. This included resources and information about sexual health, consent, and pleasure. LGBTQ+ and feminist advocacy played a vital role in pushing for inclusivity, body positivity, and sexual empowerment within the sex toy industry. The sex toy market expanded to include a wider variety of products, from traditional vibrators and dildos to anal toys, BDSM equipment, and novelty items.

2010s

The 2010s brought further advancements and cultural shifts in the realm of sex toys and sexual liberation. There was a surge in high-tech sex toys with features like customizable vibration patterns, heating elements, and even artificial intelligence (AI) for personalized experiences. App-controlled sex toys became increasingly sophisticated, allowing for interactive and long-distance pleasure.

Manufacturers continued to prioritize gender-inclusive design, producing toys that catered to diverse bodies and identities. Gender-neutral branding and marketing became more common. The industry embraced body positivity and diversity, featuring models of various shapes, sizes, and ethnicities in marketing campaigns. The availability of plus-sized and gender-affirming sex toys increased.

Sexual wellness became a significant focus, with an emphasis on sexual health, consent, and pleasure. Online resources and educational platforms provide information about sexual wellness, reducing misinformation. Many individuals embraced sex toys as tools for self-care and empowerment, emphasizing self-discovery and self-pleasure. Social media platforms allowed sex toy companies and sexual wellness advocates to reach wider audiences.

The sex toy market continued to diversify, with an increase in products like couples’ toys, prostate massagers, and BDSM equipment. Novelty items and unconventional designs became more common. You could even order a custom toy thanks to innovative 3D printing!

From Taboos to Mainstream: Intimate Toys in Contemporary Society

The 2020s witnessed a continued surge in high-tech sex toys. App-controlled devices from across the world, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and AI-powered toys provided more immersive and personalized sexual experiences. As of September 2023, a wide range of sex furniture is available!

Sustainability remained a priority in the sex toy industry, with more manufacturers adopting eco-friendly materials, packaging, and production methods. Companies emphasized recyclable materials, rechargeable batteries, and minimalistic packaging.

The industry continued to prioritize inclusivity and diversity, with sex toys designed for a wide range of gender identities, body types, and orientations. More products catered to individuals with disabilities, addressing accessibility concerns.

The focus on sexual wellness expanded to include mental health. Products designed to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, and improve emotional well-being gained popularity. Mindful and holistic approaches to sexual pleasure became more common. Sex education remained a key component of the sexual wellness movement. Online platforms, sex educators, and sexual health advocates played a significant role in promoting informed and healthy sexual behaviors.

Online retail of sex toys continued to disrupt traditional brick-and-mortar stores, making a wide range of products easily accessible to consumers worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in online sales as people sought ways to enhance intimacy during lockdowns.

The 2020s marked a period of continued growth and innovation in the sex toy industry, with a strong emphasis on technology, sustainability, inclusivity, and sexual wellness. Society’s views on sex toys have become increasingly open and accepting, with more recognition of their role in enhancing sexual pleasure, intimacy, and overall well-being.

Always Getting Better

Sex toys have been present in human pleasure since ancient cultures. Luckily, they’ve become increasingly innovative and available to people all over the world. Not only are sex toys more accessible, but they’re becoming more and more socially acceptable. Eventually, we’ll live in a world that openly encourages sexual pleasure and educates people on how to achieve it safely.

Trends show that the future of sex toys holds even more diverse and inclusive designs, as well as further environmental consideration and societal acceptance. I have a vibrator that buzzes to the beat of my favorite music or gets controlled by my partner an ocean away — how much more high-tech can we get?

Published on Cupid’s Light September 24, 2023