Toby's, Cos Cob 1915

Childe Hassam created this etching, "Toby's, Cos Cob", depicting a scene from the Cos Cob art colony, a vibrant hub for American Impressionists. Hassam, through his involvement with the Ten American Painters, was invested in portraying modern life. The piece offers insight into the social dynamics within these artistic communities. Note the gendered division of space - a figure, possibly a woman, is on the porch while two men are in the street. The choice of rendering the scene in black and white lends a sense of timelessness, yet it also obscures the vibrant colors that defined Impressionism. Hassam was committed to capturing the fleeting moments of everyday life. This is reflected in his focus on light and atmosphere. The art colony provided a refuge where artists could freely express themselves, removed from the constraints of urban life. It fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared artistic vision. "Toby's, Cos Cob" captures the relaxed atmosphere of this community while quietly alluding to the social structures that shaped its existence.