As soon as he came in, she began to jeer at him. (1913)

In the painting "As soon as he came in, she began to jeer at him" (1913) by Edmund Dulac, we are drawn into a vivid and emotionally charged scene set against a richly illustrated backdrop that reflects the artist's deep interest in Eastern aesthetics and narratives. The artwork captures an intense moment between an elderly man and a younger woman, both dressed in traditional attire, suggesting a cultural setting that is both ornate and deeply traditional.The elderly man, his face marked with age and a stern expression, stands wearing a long, flowing green robe and a vibrantly patterned turban. His posture is slightly bent, suggesting weariness or resignation. The young woman, in contrast, is vivid with her expressive gestures and the rich colors that adorn her clothing. She seems to be in mid-conversation, possibly chastising or mocking the man, as indicated by her pointed finger and animated facial expression.The setting of the room is detailed and decorated with traditional elements such as tiled walls and a decorative carpet, adding layers of texture and color to the scene. The tilted perspective of the floor draws the viewer’s eye directly to the interaction between the two figures, emphasizing the dramatic tension of the moment.Dulac's use of muted yet complex color palette and his attention to cultural attire and decor transports the viewer into a world that feels both intimate and expansive, highlighting his skill in storytelling through visual arts.