Coco was painted by Auguste Renoir in 1905.

Where can I see Coco?

Coco is held by Detroit Institute of Arts.

What movement is Coco?

Coco is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Coco

Auguste Renoir , 1905

Coco is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Auguste Renoir. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1905, this oil painting by Pierre‑Auguste Renoir presents a portrait titled “Coco.” The work resides in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts, where it is displayed among the museum’s late‑period Impressionist holdings. Its modest dimensions and intimate composition invite close viewing, emphasizing the personal nature of the subject.

Subject & Meaning

The figure portrayed is Claude Renoir, the artist’s son, rendered as a youthful child with a head of curly red hair and a simple blue blouse. Her posture—arms crossed and a neutral gaze—conveys a quiet self‑containment, suggesting a moment of private reflection rather than an overt narrative.

Technique & Style

Renoir employs loose, expressive brushwork that blurs the facial features while retaining enough detail to suggest the child’s expression. The palette is restrained, dominated by a creamy background that contrasts with the vivid blue of the garment. This handling of form and color creates a sense of movement and immediacy characteristic of Renoir’s late style.

History & Provenance

After its completion, the portrait entered the private collection of the Renoir family before being acquired by the Detroit Institute of Arts. The museum’s acquisition records indicate the painting was donated in the mid‑20th century, where it has since been part of exhibitions exploring the artist’s later years and familial subjects.