Moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera, Plate 25) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

Insecta Lepidoptera–Heterocera, Plate 25 (1879) by Frederick DuCane Godman captures the quiet drama of moths rendered with Victorian exactitude. Godman, an English naturalist and collector active in the nineteenth century, helped spearhead a golden age of natural history publishing, when meticulous illustration guided taxonomy and ignited public curiosity. This plate exemplifies the period’s union of art and science: a crisp white ground, finely observed forms, and an orderly arrangement designed to aid identification without sacrificing grace.

Offered exclusively by The Unique Maps Co., this is a museum-quality fine art print, produced with archival pigment inks on acid-free, heavyweight paper or on artist’s cotton canvas. Choose from a range of sizes and curated frame options to suit your space. We can add a tasteful caption, preserve or remove any original plate notations (where present), and personalize the piece—perfect for commemorating a special date, dedication, or milestone.

Frederick DuCane Godman (1834–1919) was a leading figure in Victorian natural history, renowned for assembling significant collections and for his role in foundational zoological publications. His work championed empirical observation and exacting draftsmanship at a time when species from distant regions were being systematically recorded for the first time. This plate reflects that ethos: it is an invitation to look closely, compare carefully, and appreciate biodiversity through the lens of careful study.

Within the Lepidoptera, “Heterocera” traditionally grouped moths—many of them nocturnal—whose forms and habits fascinated nineteenth-century scholars and the broader public alike. The plate’s comparative layout allows subtle distinctions to emerge: how antennae taper, how wings broaden or narrow, how patterns organize across the surface to signal camouflage or display. In an era of expanding exploration and classification, such images functioned as both scientific tools and windows into the natural world’s richness.

The artistry is as compelling as the science. Muted earth tones—soft browns, umbers, and olive greens—are balanced by slight flashes of orange and yellow against an uncluttered white field. Fine linework and delicate shading model each moth with dimensional precision, while symmetrical wing patterns create a rhythmic, almost architectural harmony. The result is a serene, versatile image that suits a study, library, living room, or modern workspace, bringing both calm and curiosity to the wall.

This elegant print makes a thoughtful gift for entomologists, natural history lovers, teachers, and anyone drawn to Victorian art and science. Ideal for Christmas, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduations, housewarmings, or to celebrate a recent nature trip, it’s a timeless way to honor curiosity and the beauty of the natural world.

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.