Crocodile Devouring an Antelope

Antoine-Louis Barye

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts an alligator and a dog engaged in a struggle. The alligator is positioned with its body draped over the dog, appearing to rest on a textured ground that suggests an outdoor setting. The sculpture is made of a dark-colored material, likely bronze. The detailed textures capture the scales of the alligator and the fur of the dog, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. The figures are life-like, with the alligator's tail curling around and the dog's body contorted as if in motion. The overall composition is compact, with the subjects and the base realistically unified, creating a sense of continuity and balance in the artwork.