Polysiphonia byssoides 1851 - 1855

This cyanotype of Polysiphonia byssoides, or red algae, was created by Anna Atkins in the 1840s, using a process that combined art and science. Atkins’ work existed in the cultural context of Victorian England, a period marked by significant scientific advancements and a growing interest in natural history. As photography emerged as a new medium, it was quickly embraced by scientists for its ability to accurately document the natural world. The production of her work was rooted in the scientific community; Atkins was a botanist and her aim in creating the cyanotypes was to provide detailed illustrations for scientific study. Yet, her images transcend mere scientific documentation; they are also works of art. Understanding Atkins' cyanotypes requires access to resources that help us appreciate both the scientific and artistic contexts of her work. It’s a reminder that art's meaning is always shaped by the social and institutional conditions of its time.