Moths (Heterocera, Plate 36) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera Pl 031 by Frederick DuCane Godman (1879) is a Victorian zoological illustration that distills the spirit of 19th‑century natural history. Associated with the English zoologist and collector Frederick DuCane Godman (1834–1919), this plate reflects the era’s union of exacting science and refined artistry. Issued during a flourishing period of entomological publishing, the composition presents moths (Lepidoptera-Heterocera) in a clear, orderly arrangement designed to aid comparison and study, its crisp white ground and restrained coloration emphasizing structure, pattern, and anatomical nuance.

This listing offers a museum-quality fine art print produced with archival inks, available on acid-free heavyweight paper or artist’s cotton canvas. Choose from a range of sizes, with optional framing to arrive ready to hang. The Unique Maps Co. can tailor margins, add or remove a caption, and personalize the piece—ideal for commemorating special occasions or curating a coordinated wall display.

About the artist: Godman was a leading figure in late Victorian natural history, renowned for his exhaustive collecting and scholarship. He co-edited the monumental Biologia Centrali‑Americana with Osbert Salvin, a landmark survey that advanced the study of flora and fauna across Central America. His commitment to careful observation and documentation helped set standards for accuracy in zoological illustration, especially in entomology.

About the subject: Lepidoptera-Heterocera encompasses moths—an immense and diverse order whose subtle distinctions often hinge on meticulous attention to wing pattern, venation, and coloration. Plates like this served as indispensable tools for identification and classification, bridging the gap between field collection and taxonomy at a time when exploration and cataloguing of biodiversity were central scientific pursuits.

About the style: Executed in a naturalistic manner with fine ink work and delicate watercolor washes, the sheet showcases symmetrical wing forms arrayed with scientific clarity. Earthy browns and blacks are punctuated by lively notes of orange and yellow, each moth rendered with precise strokes that catch the shimmer of scales and the rhythm of banding and spots. The spare white background heightens contrast and readability, giving the composition a modern, almost minimalist appeal that suits both traditional studies and contemporary interiors. It’s a compelling choice for lovers of natural history, entomologists, and anyone drawn to the quiet elegance of Victorian scientific design.

A thoughtful gift for birthdays, graduations, and housewarmings—and a distinctive present for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Christmas, or for someone recently returned from travels in the tropics—this classic natural-history plate brings scholarly beauty and timeless curiosity to any wall.

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.