Siphoneae. – Reuzenalgen
1904
Ernst Haeckel's *Kunstformen der Natur* (Art Forms of Nature) bridges the gap between strict science and decorative art. This plate, number 64, depicts various species of *Caulerpa* (giant algae), rendering their complex, branching structures with such elegance that they resemble intricate jewelry or alien architecture. Haeckel believed that nature was the greatest artist, and his stunning illustrations actually helped launch the Art Nouveau movement. Designers and architects across Europe used his biological patterns to create everything from wrought-iron gates to stained glass windows.
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