Jania rubens 1851 - 1855

"Jania rubens" is a cyanotype photograph from Anna Atkins's groundbreaking book, "Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions". Created between 1851 and 1855, this image showcases Atkins's mastery of the cyanotype process. The delicate, white forms of the algae stand out against the vibrant blue background, a hallmark of the cyanotype printing technique. Atkins's work was not only a scientific endeavor but also an artistic exploration of nature's beauty. Her book was a pioneer in botanical illustration, using photography to capture the intricacies of the natural world. This cyanotype print, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to Atkins's pioneering contributions to both science and art.