Gigartina purpurascens – in fruit c. 1843 - 1853

This photogram of Gigartina purpurascens, a type of red algae, was created by Anna Atkins using cyanotype in the 19th century. Here, the branching form of the algae, set against the deep blue, echoes the 'arbor vitae' or tree of life, a motif stretching back to ancient mythologies. This tree, often seen as a symbol of immortality and knowledge, appears in various guises across cultures, from the sacred fig tree in Buddhism to the Norse Yggdrasil connecting different worlds. The stark, almost ghostly presentation evokes an intense sense of the sublime. This interplay between scientific observation and the deeper, primal symbols taps into a collective memory. The image becomes more than a study; it's a potent reminder of the interconnectedness of life. The viewer is pulled into contemplation about nature, knowledge, and our place in the cosmos. These symbols have resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts, weaving a tapestry of evolving interpretations.