With the following excerpts from “Descripcion del real monasterio de San Lorenzo del Escorial” I have selected two qualitatively identical sketches of different temples. The sketches are characterized by precise scales and offer the reader a legend to illustrate the materiality of the exterior facade. Shades add value to the plans and create a certain sense of depth. Both sketches were drawn by different personalities, but they are very similar in nature. In my opinion it is remarkable how contemporary the sketch looks, even though it is from the 18th century.
In the following excerpt, I noticed the initial at the beginning of a new chapter. The initials are decorated with an architectural background and show detailed, rural, rows of houses. Also, at the end of the chapter, the blank page is decorated with a wreath. What is remarkable for me, is the attention to detail and the effort that was put into an initial.
Here is another example of an elevation, precisely placed over the floor plan and provided with a scale. I admire the precise and clean representation.