This is one of a handful of small seaweed pressings I purchased together, which I think are just exquisitely beautiful! A few of them are signed and dated at bottom, others like this one initialed on back (C.A.S), so they represent the work of a few different people, most likely young women, among whom seaweed collecting and pressing was quite the thing during the Victorian era. I love the fact that making these represented not just a burgeoning interest in the natural world, but also allowed greater freedom for women and girls--a reason, or even an excuse, to head out on their own toward the sea! And what could be better than a batch gathered on the Isle of Wight.
5 1/4" x 4" on a very thin laid paper with a watermark. A tiny bit of age toning but excellent condition.
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