Corallina officinalis 1851 - 1855

Anna Atkins' "Corallina officinalis" (1851-1855) is a cyanotype photograph of a type of algae, showcasing the artist's pioneering work in photogenic drawing. Created using a process where light-sensitive paper is exposed to sunlight and then washed, resulting in a blue-green print, the work is a testament to Atkins' groundbreaking contributions to the field of photography. Her work documented the intricate beauty of nature, specifically focusing on botanical specimens, and paved the way for future photographic explorations in the scientific realm. The image's intricate detail and the use of cyanotype technique make it a captivating example of early photographic experimentation and its application in scientific documentation.