Erotic alphabets take every possible approach to including sexual interactions in identifiable letter-shaped combinations. This portfolio from around 1890, Nouvel alphabet pratique pour adultes pour s’instruire rapidement et soi-même (New Practical Alphabet for Adult Self-education) is unashamedly straightforward, a sort of alphabetic Kama Sutra of sexual positions.

We are very grateful to Hans-Jürgen Döpp for these images; Hans-Jürgen, the compiler of many books on erotic art, curates the Venusberg online gallery and bookshop which you can find here.