Conferva arcta c. 1843 - 1853

"Conferva arcta" is a cyanotype print by Anna Atkins, a pioneer in the field of photography. Created between 1843 and 1853, this work showcases Atkins' groundbreaking use of the cyanotype process, a photographic technique that produces blue prints. The image depicts various specimens of Conferva arcta, a type of algae, showcasing the delicate details and intricate structures of these marine plants. Atkins' work was not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributed significantly to the scientific understanding of botany. This cyanotype, part of her larger project "Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions," revolutionized the field of botanical illustration, paving the way for a more accurate and accessible means of scientific documentation.