The frontispiece of the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

The frontispiece of the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

'British Ferns' insert from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

'British Ferns' insert from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', featured in the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in August 1851.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Ceterach officinarum, or Rustyback fern, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Woodsia hyperborea, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Polypodium vulgare, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Polypodium phegopteris, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

A cyanotype of Polypodium phegopteris, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Polypodium dryopteris, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Polypodium calcareum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Allosursus crispus, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Cystopteris fragilis, or Brittle Bladder fern, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Cystopteris dentata, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium lonchitis, or Holly Fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium aculeatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Athyrium molle, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

A cyanotype of the fern Aspidium lobatum, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium angulare, or Soft Shield fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea recurva, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

A cyanotype of Lastrea recurva, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea thelypteris, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea oreopoteris, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea cristata, 1853 from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea Filix-Mas, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea rigida, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Lastrea spinulosa, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Lastrea dilatata, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lastrea foenisecii, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype, of Athyrium filix-femina, or Lady fern, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

A cyanotype of Athyrium filix-femina, or Lady fern, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Athyrium molle, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium viride, or Green Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium trichomanes, or Maidenhair Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium marinum, or Sea Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium lanceolatum, or Lanceolate Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium adiantum-nigrum, or Black Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium ruta muraria, or Wall Rue, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium septentrionale, or Forked Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium fontanum from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Scolopendrium vulgare, or Hart's Tongue fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Scolopendrium vulgare, or Hart's Tongue fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern, one of the Blechnum genus, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Pteris aquilina, or Bracken fern, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Adiantum capillus veneris, or Black Maidenhair fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Hymenophyllum tunbridgense, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Hymenophyllum wilsonii, or Wilson's Filmy fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Osmunda regalis, or Royal fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Botrychium lunaria, or Common Moonwort, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Ophioglossum vulgatum, or Southern Adderstongue, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Equisetum sylvaticum, or Wood Horsetail, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

'Foreign Ferns' cyanotype insert from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Achrosticum simplix, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Gymnogramma sulphurea fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Polypodium effusum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Polypodium pinnatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853. The photograph is subtitled 'Tree Fern (Jamaica) grows by a simple stem to a height of 20 or 25 feet'

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Polypodium muscosum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Polypodium crenatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Onoclea sensibilis, or the Sensitive fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Woodwardia virginica, or Virginia chainfern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium fragrans, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

A cyanotype of the fern Woodwardia virginica, or Virginia chainfern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Asplenium praemorsum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Asplenium striatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

A cyanotype of the fern Asplenium praemorsum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium eboneum, or Ebony Fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium rhizophyllum, or Walking fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium chinensis, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Asplenium radicans, or Dullgreen Spleenwort, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Diplazium cultifolium, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Diplazium grandifolium, or Largeleaf Twinsorus fern, from the album 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Pteris caudata, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Pteris sagittaria, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Pteris rotundifolia, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Adiantum cuneatum, or Delta Maidenhair fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Adiantum assmile, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Adiantum pedatum, or Northern Maidenhair fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Adiantum tenerum, or Brittle Maidenhair fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Adiantum serrulatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight. Atkins went on to produce several more cyanotype albums containing many striking images, mainly of ferns and other plants.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Adiantum striatum, or Hart's Tongue fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Cheilanthes microphylla, or Southern Lipfern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Davallia aculeata, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium denticulatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium bulbiferum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium trifoliatum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium trapezoides, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern, Aspidium obtusum, from Chatsworth Conservatory, made by Anna Atkins (1799-1871) on 26 August 1851and featured in 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Aspidium, from Jamaica, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Trichomanes crinitum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Trichomanes crispum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Trichomanes radicans, or Aerialroot Bristle fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Hymenophyllum sericeum, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Hymenophyllum decurrens, or Sierra de Luquillo Filmy fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Osmunda interrupta, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Lygodium volubile, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Anemia adiantifolia, or Pine fern, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Botrychium gracile, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of the fern Gleichenia immersa, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of Darea cicutaria, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern labelled 'Jamaica', from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of ferns labelled 'Jamaica', from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern labelled 'Ceylon', from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of ferns labelled 'Ceylon', from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern labelled 'Ceylon', from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern from Ceylon, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern from Ceylon, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern from Ceylon, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.

A cyanotype of a fern from Ceylon, from 'Cyanotypes of British and Foreign Ferns', made by Anna Atkins in 1853.

Atkins was a pioneering figure in photographic history, having produced the first book to use photographic illustrations - 'British Algae: Cyanotype Impressions' - in 1843.

This image was made by placing the plant specimen on top of light-sensitised paper and then exposing it to sunlight.

The cyanotype process was invented by Sir John Herschel (1792-1871) in 1842 and derived from his observations on the light sensitivity of iron salts. The brilliant blue colour of the resulting prints gives the process its more common name - the blueprint. The process was used for many years to duplicate engineers' drawings.