Polysiphonia atro–purpurea [= Polysiphonia atropurpurea] c. 1843 - 1853

Anna Atkins, a pioneering photographer, created this cyanotype print of the seaweed *Polysiphonia atro-purpurea* sometime between 1843 and 1853. Atkins used the cyanotype process to create detailed botanical illustrations, capturing the intricate details of plants and algae with remarkable accuracy. The image is presented on a blue background, with the white silhouette of the seaweed standing out in sharp contrast. This cyanotype is from her book *Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions*. Atkins' work played a significant role in advancing the understanding of botany through the power of photography.