Polysiphonia pulvinata c. 1843 - 1853

This is Anna Atkin's 'Polysiphonia pulvinata', a cyanotype. Atkins made history by using this photographic process to document British algae. Born at the end of the 18th century, Atkins lived during a time of rapid scientific advancement, however, science was a male-dominated field. Undeterred, she navigated these challenges to become a pioneering figure in photography and botany. As a woman in the Victorian era, her access to formal education and professional opportunities were limited, however, her privilege allowed her to circumvent those limitations, and turn her focus to botanical studies and photography. 'Polysiphonia pulvinata' is more than a scientific record. It reflects a personal endeavor, documenting the beauty and complexity of the natural world. What we see in this work are her unique contributions to science and art. It invites us to reflect on the intersections of gender, class, and scientific progress in the 19th century.