Moths (Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera, Plate 19) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera Pl. 019 (1879) by Frederick DuCane Godman is a quintessential Victorian zoological illustration devoted to moths and other nocturnal Lepidoptera. Created in an era when naturalists sought to document biodiversity with scholarly precision, this scientific plate balances art and taxonomy: specimens are presented with immaculate clarity so their wing shapes, markings, and patterns can be compared and classified. The restrained composition and careful lettering speak to a time when images were indispensable tools for knowledge-making in the biological sciences.

This is a museum-quality fine art print, produced by The Unique Maps Co. on your choice of acid-free archival paper or artist’s cotton canvas. Order in a range of sizes—from study-friendly small formats to statement pieces—and add professional framing in black, white, or natural wood. We also offer personalization and custom options, including scaled sizing, border adjustments, curated pairings with companion plates, and bespoke title plates noting artist and date.

Frederick DuCane Godman (1834–1919) was a British naturalist and collector whose life’s work helped catalogue the natural world at a pivotal moment in scientific history. Best known for his role in major natural history surveys and publications, he championed methodical observation and high-standards of illustration that made complex taxa accessible to scholars and enthusiasts alike. His legacy endures not only in museum collections but in the enduring utility and beauty of plates such as this one.

The subject here—moths within Lepidoptera (historically grouped under Heterocera)—reflects the late 19th century’s drive toward systematic classification. Scientific plates like this were the working language of taxonomy: each figure is numbered and labeled for cross-reference, allowing researchers to compare subtle distinctions in patterning and morphology. As a historical artifact, the plate captures the moment when color lithography began to elevate scientific images beyond outline drawings, enabling faithful rendering of tone and texture.

A warm, natural palette dominates the sheet—notes of orange, cream-white, and coffee-browns accented by muted greens and ochres. Fine, precise strokes articulate the scales and veins of each wing, while symmetrical silhouettes and carefully observed banding, chevrons, and delicate antennae convey species-level nuance without embellishment. The result is both rigorously informative and quietly decorative—ideal for interiors that value calm, earthy color and timeless, scholarly design. For lovers of entomology, natural history, and Victorian print culture, it’s a piece that invites slow looking and conversation. As a scientific work, it speaks the language of Lepidoptera; as wall art, it offers enduring harmony and character.

A thoughtful gift for Christmas, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduations, or housewarmings, this print also suits anyone who loves natural history museums, butterfly houses, or the quiet elegance of curated study walls. It’s a refined addition to libraries, offices, studios, and reading nooks—where curiosity and craftsmanship meet.

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.