Codium tomentosum 1851 - 1855

Anna Atkins, a pioneer in the field of photography, created this cyanotype of *Codium tomentosum* between 1851 and 1855. This image, from her book *Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions*, showcases Atkins’ mastery of the cyanotype process, a photographic printing technique that produces a distinctive blue background with white details. Atkins used this process to document various species of algae, contributing to the scientific understanding of the natural world while also creating stunning visual works of art. *Codium tomentosum*, displayed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to Atkins' groundbreaking work in photography and her dedication to scientific observation.