Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera (Plate 62) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

Frederick DuCane Godman’s Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera Pl. 062 (1879) is a refined Victorian zoological illustration devoted to moths—the nocturnal branch of the Lepidoptera. Composed on a clean, pale ground, multiple specimens are presented with clarity so that wing patterns, body shapes, and subtle distinctions can be studied at a glance. Created in the heyday of natural history publishing, the plate embodies the 19th‑century union of scientific rigor and artistic poise.

Offered as a museum-quality fine art print, this piece is available on acid-free archival paper or luxurious artist’s cotton canvas. The Unique Maps Co. produces a range of sizes—from intimate study formats to statement wall centerpieces—with optional borders, custom trim to fit standard frames, and professional framing in black, white, or natural wood. Personalization and bespoke requests are welcome, including custom sizing and curated groupings with companion plates from the series.

Godman (1834–1919) was an English naturalist whose work helped shape the visual and taxonomic record of Lepidoptera during a period when classification and collecting captivated scholars and the public alike. His contributions reflect an era energized by advances in printmaking and field observation, when carefully prepared plates translated the complexity of the natural world into images that could educate and inspire.

Plate 062 embodies the scholarly spirit of Victorian entomology. “Lepidoptera-Heterocera,” a historical category for moths, signals the plate’s comparative intent: to set related forms side by side for direct study. The arrangement and spacing allow viewers to contrast broad, softly scalloped wings with narrower, elongated forms, and to note antennae, venation, and silhouette—features essential to identification in contemporary reference works.

Aesthetically, the illustration is serene and meticulous. A white ground anchors a naturalistic palette of soft yellows, warm oranges, and gentle browns, with fine, controlled line work describing veins and margins. Transparent washes lend volume without crowding the page, while the quiet symmetry and purposeful negative space give each specimen room to “breathe.” The result is a composition that reads as both scientific diagram and elegant wall art—equally at home in a study, reading nook, nursery, or living room.

This print makes a thoughtful gift for entomology enthusiasts, natural history lovers, and admirers of Victorian design—perfect for birthdays, housewarmings, Mother’s or Father’s Day, Christmas, or to celebrate a friend’s museum visit or nature-filled travels.

If you're not sure what size to order, or you're looking for a custom order of some kind – a different size, a different colour, a special frame – then please contact me. I usually respond within a few minutes.

You can see an example of my fine art personalisation service in the fifth image. Zoom in and take a look. My personalised artwork is always very well received. Take a look at more examples of personalisation.

You can also choose to age your art print to make it look older. This is popular amongst my customers who want their artwork to look like an older, antique print. You can see an example of ageing in the sixth product image, or go ahead and check out lots of examples of other aged artwork.

The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) version of this art print.

I can print and frame this beautiful piece of art at sizes up to 3 metres (10ft). If you are looking for a size or framing option that isn't available online, please get in touch.

This artwork is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. My standard frames come in six colours (black, dark brown, dark grey, antique gold, oak and white), and custom framing is available for an additional charge. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.