Moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera, Plate 42) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

“Insecta Lepidoptera–Heterocera Pl. 047” (1879) by Frederick DuCane Godman is a quintessential Victorian zoological illustration devoted to moths. Godman (1834–1919), an English naturalist and collector, helped usher natural history into a modern, systematic age through meticulous fieldwork and publication. This plate reflects that spirit: a precise, orderly arrangement of specimens on a clean white field, inviting close comparison of wing shapes, patterning, and coloration. Created during a period when illustrated research was central to cataloging biodiversity, it bridges the worlds of science and beauty with quiet authority.

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. We offer a range of sizes and framing options—classic black, white, or natural wood frames, with or without a mat—to suit your space. Personalization is available, from custom sizing to an optional caption, dedication, or date line to make the piece uniquely yours.

About the artist: Godman is celebrated for his leadership in 19th-century natural history and for his collaborative publications that documented the flora and fauna of the Americas. His method combined exacting observation with clarity of presentation, resulting in plates that remain invaluable to researchers and collectors alike. He championed the careful classification of insects at a time when entomology was rapidly expanding, and his work set enduring standards for scientific illustration.

About the subject: In Lepidoptera, “Heterocera” historically denotes moths, and Plate 047 exemplifies how Victorian scholars approached taxonomy—systematically and comparatively. The moths are set in measured rows with reference markings beneath each figure, the visual equivalent of a field guide designed for study and identification. Rather than dramatizing nature, the sheet emphasizes legibility and consistency, guiding the eye to differences in silhouette, scale, and delicate surface markings that distinguish one species from another.

About the design and color: The white ground heightens the clarity of each specimen, while the moths themselves glow in gentle earth tones—soft ochres, warm oranges, tobacco browns, and touches of yellow—applied with exquisite restraint. Fine line work and subtly layered washes reveal textures from powdery wings to scalloped margins and faint banding. The palette feels calm and organic, making this print an elegant focal point in a study, library, or living room. It’s a compelling choice for anyone who appreciates the intersection of art and science and wants a conversation piece with timeless appeal.

This print makes a thoughtful gift for nature lovers, entomologists, and vintage art enthusiasts—equally at home as a Christmas, Father’s Day, or Mother’s Day present, a housewarming gift, or a keepsake for someone recently returned from a biodiversity-rich journey.

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.