Black Panther

Copied Bruce Moore, Black Panther, 1928, bronze, 12 3⁄4 x 23 1⁄2 x 6 1⁄8 in. (32.4 x 59.7 x 15.6 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Alice H. Moore, 1993.69

Artwork Details

Title
Black Panther
Artist
Date
1928
Location
Dimensions
12 3⁄4 x 23 1⁄2 x 6 1⁄8 in. (32.4 x 59.7 x 15.6 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Alice H. Moore
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Animal — panther
Object Number
1993.69

Artwork Description

The panther was a common motif during the art deco era, signifying power and elegance. All of the movement in Black Panther comes from the sleek, fluid surface. The panther’s body is stretched and frozen in an exaggerated pose that is beautiful if unnatural. His body seems even longer because his legs reach beyond the base. This extension pulls the viewer’s eyes in, across, and out of the sculpture in one smooth movement.