Untitled c. 1850

This cyanotype of two fern specimens was made by an anonymous artist, printed on paper. Looking at the print, I’m struck by the history of women in science, who were often unacknowledged. The cyanotype process, popularized in the 19th century, allowed for the simple and inexpensive reproduction of images, and was embraced by women scientists like Anna Atkins, who used it to document botanical specimens. The deep blue background emphasizes the delicate, ghostly white forms of the ferns, invoking a sense of quiet observation and reverence for the natural world. The artist's careful arrangement and precise execution invite a meditation on the intersections of art, science, and the often-unseen labor that sustains both. This work makes me think about the countless untold stories of those whose contributions have been overshadowed, urging us to seek out and celebrate those voices.