Rhodomela lycopodoides 1851 - 1855

This cyanotype, "Rhodomela lycopodoides," is one of many created by Anna Atkins for her groundbreaking book, "Photographs of British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions," a groundbreaking work of botanical photography published between 1851 and 1855. Atkins utilized the cyanotype process, a method that uses light-sensitive chemicals to capture the image of the seaweed specimen, resulting in a striking blue background with white details. This work highlights Atkins's pioneering role in the history of photography and her dedication to showcasing the beauty and complexity of the natural world.