Conferva gracilis c. 1843 - 1853

"Conferva gracilis" is a cyanotype photograph by Anna Atkins, a pioneer of photography. Created between 1843 and 1853, this image depicts a delicate, feathery sprig of algae against a vibrant blue background. Atkins's use of the cyanotype process, a method she refined for her groundbreaking book "Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions," captured the intricate details of botanical specimens with remarkable accuracy. The image's crisp lines and stark contrast showcase Atkins's innovative approach to capturing the beauty of the natural world. This cyanotype, part of a larger series, stands as a testament to the artistry and scientific precision of Atkins's work.