Moths (Plate 20) by Frederick DuCane Godman, 1879

Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera Pl. 020 (1879) by Frederick DuCane Godman is a quintessential Victorian zoological illustration dedicated to the study of moths. Created during a period when natural history illustration served as both research tool and public education, the plate presents carefully observed specimens arranged with clarity for comparison. The emphasis is on accurate morphology—wing shape, venation, and pattern—so that subtle differences can be identified at a glance, reflecting the rigorous taxonomic spirit of the late 19th century.

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. Choose from a range of sizes, with optional custom framing in black, white, or natural wood. Personalization and customization are available on request, including scaled sizing, margin and border adjustments, companion pairings with related plates, and bespoke title plates noting artist and date.

Frederick DuCane Godman (1834–1919) was a British naturalist and lepidopterist whose career paralleled the great age of cataloguing the natural world. He championed meticulous field observation supported by exacting illustration, helping transform observation into knowledge that could be shared among scholars and enthusiasts. His name is closely associated with authoritative natural history surveys and collections that still inform research today.

This particular plate focuses on the diversity within Lepidoptera historically grouped as Heterocera (moths), capturing the calm, systematic beauty of Victorian science. The clean layout prioritizes legibility over ornament, allowing viewers to compare markings, bands, and edges without distraction. It exemplifies how art and science were intertwined: the printer’s craft serving the naturalist’s eye to produce a precise, enduring reference.

A bright white ground and warm accents of orange and soft yellow anchor the palette, complemented by gentle browns, creams, and muted pinks. Fine, controlled strokes describe the delicate scales and subtle gradients across each wing. The symmetrical silhouettes and varied wing shapes—from broad and rounded to elegantly elongated—give the sheet a quiet rhythm. Displayed in a study, hallway, or reading nook, it offers both decorative serenity and educational intrigue—an eloquent choice for anyone drawn to entomology, natural history, and timeless design.

A thoughtful gift for Christmas, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays, graduations, or housewarmings, this print also makes a meaningful present for museum-goers, budding collectors, or travelers newly inspired by 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.