Moths (Lepidoptera-Heterocera, Plate 70) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera Pl. 063 (1879) by Frederick DuCane Godman is a refined Victorian zoological illustration from the great age of natural history. Godman—an English naturalist and collector—helped bring scientific order to the dazzling variety of moths, and this plate exemplifies the period’s drive to catalog the natural world with exacting clarity. The pale, uncluttered ground and disciplined arrangement give each specimen crisp visual prominence, making the image as useful to researchers of its day as it is beautiful to modern eyes.

Our edition is a premium fine art print produced with museum-quality giclée inks. Choose acid-free archival paper for a softly tactile, matte finish, or artist’s cotton canvas for subtle texture and depth. Available in a full range of sizes, it can be ordered unframed or expertly framed and ready to hang. The Unique Maps Co. also offers personalization options—custom sizing, caption plates, and thoughtful framing choices—so your print arrives perfectly tailored to your space.

Frederick DuCane Godman (1834–1919) was a leading figure in late 19th-century natural history, known for his meticulous approach to classification and his role in advancing entomology. His work bridged scholarly rigor and public fascination, making the wonders of Lepidoptera accessible to collectors, students, and fellow scientists. This plate reflects his commitment to accuracy and to the elegant presentation of scientific knowledge.

The subject—moths of the Heterocera—captures the Victorian moment when taxonomy flourished and illustrated plates were the language of discovery. Arranged for easy comparison, the specimens reveal meaningful differences in form and pattern that once guided identification in an era before color photography. Subtle taxonomic details and Latin inscriptions beneath the figures (present in the original plate) underscore the image’s scholarly purpose and enduring historical value.

Color and composition are restrained and sophisticated. Against a clean white field, the moths unfold in soft creams, beige, and gentle browns, with selective orange markings that draw the eye to wing bands and delicate scallops. Fine linework articulates venation and antennae with precision, while velvety watercolor washes suggest the powdery texture of wings. The symmetrical, balanced layout offers a calm, orderly beauty that suits contemporary interiors—from minimalist living rooms and airy kitchens to studies, libraries, and gallery walls.

This print makes a thoughtful gift for naturalists, entomologists, and anyone who loves vintage scientific art. It’s ideal for Christmas, birthdays, Mother’s or Father’s Day, housewarmings, or for someone recently returned from a museum visit or travels that sparked a curiosity about 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.