Polysiphonia elongata 1851 - 1855

Anna Atkins created this cyanotype titled *Polysiphonia elongata*. Atkins lived during a time of rigid societal expectations, but her passion for science led her to explore beyond these gendered constraints. As one of the first women photographers, she documented various types of algae, combining her artistic eye with scientific precision. This photogram is part of her publication "British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions." The choice of cyanotype, with its distinctive blue hue, adds an ethereal quality to the image, while providing a more accessible and affordable method of illustration. By choosing to focus on the often-overlooked beauty of algae, Atkins directs our attention to the intricate patterns and delicate structures of the natural world, and the importance of looking closely. Ultimately, the image is a testament to the intersection of art, science, and the enduring quest for knowledge and understanding.