Polysiphonia parasitica 1851 - 1855

This is Anna Atkins' "Polysiphonia parasitica," a cyanotype made in the 19th century. Atkins, a British botanist and photographer, created this image using a process that relies on the interaction of ultraviolet light and chemicals on paper. It's a simple, almost alchemical method, transforming ordinary materials into a striking, detailed image. The cyanotype process gives the print its distinctive deep blue color. It's not just a backdrop, but an integral part of the image, influencing our perception of the seaweed specimen itself. The stark white of the algae against the rich blue creates a ghostly, ethereal effect. Atkins’ work is significant not just for its aesthetic appeal, but also for its role in the history of photography. It beautifully combines scientific documentation with artistic expression, blurring the boundaries between disciplines. It makes you think about the labor involved, both in gathering specimens and in meticulously crafting each print. It reminds us that even scientific images are made, not simply taken.