Insecta Lepidoptera-Heterocera Pl 002 by Frederick DuCane Godman is a refined Victorian zoological illustration first published in 1879. Part of the great 19th‑century tradition of natural history plates, it reflects the period’s insistence on accuracy and clarity: a constellation of carefully observed moths (Lepidoptera: Heterocera) arranged against a pristine white field. Subtle oranges and warm browns define the specimens’ markings, while delicately modeled bodies and antennae convey the scientific discipline of the age. The result is both a precise record and an elegant work of art, emblematic of the way scholars married beauty and taxonomy in the late Victorian era.

Offered exclusively by The Unique Maps Co., this piece is available as a museum-quality fine art print on acid-free archival paper or as a richly textured artist’s cotton canvas. Choose from a range of sizes to suit your space—from intimate study corners to statement walls—with optional handcrafted framing and conservation-grade matting. Personalization is welcome: add a custom title line, a dedication, or curatorial notes to create a one-of-a-kind print that celebrates your interests or commemorates a special occasion.

Frederick DuCane Godman was a leading British naturalist and patron of science whose name is inseparable from the landmark project Biologia Centrali-Americana (1879–1915). His collaborations gathered and organized an immense record of Central American fauna, shaping how future generations would study biodiversity. Under his direction, teams of specialists and illustrators produced plates that blended disciplined fieldwork with impeccable draughtsmanship, leaving an enduring legacy for entomologists and collectors alike.

This plate focuses on Heterocera—moths—whose subtle variations in wing shape, pattern, and coloration are central to their identification and ecology. In the 19th century, such illustrations were indispensable tools: they captured fine diagnostic details before photography could do so reliably, standardizing knowledge across museums and universities. Plates like this became scientific ambassadors, traveling libraries that made distant species legible to scholars and enthusiasts everywhere.

Aesthetically, the composition is a masterclass in restraint and precision. The crisp white background isolates each specimen, letting their earthy browns, soft ochres, and touches of orange glow with naturalistic fidelity. Fine linework delineates venation and margins, while careful shading gives volume to the bodies. The orderly spacing reads like a visual taxonomy—clean, calm, and richly informative—making this an ideal piece for anyone who appreciates the intersection of science and design. It pairs beautifully with mid-century furnishings, traditional libraries, and modern minimal interiors alike.

This print makes a thoughtful gift for natural history lovers, entomologists, and collectors, as well as for birthdays, Christmas, Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduations, and housewarmings. It’s also a memorable present for anyone recently returned from travels in Central America or inspired by the quiet marvels of the nocturnal 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.

This artwork is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The work is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present an art print without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas art and explore the differences between my different finishes.