The text describes a method using the camera obscura to represent objects from nature or surrounding areas in art. The technique involves positioning the back of the machine toward the sun to achieve clearer reflections of objects. It details the use of mirrors to represent objects from different angles while explaining how light reflection impacts the visual clarity of the representation.
THE DRAWING
V
Method of portraying one after the other, with the camera obscura, the objects around a countryside or a garden where the machine is placed, and to make these objects appear upright before the person seated in the machine.
23. The back of the machine should be turned towards the sun because the objects behind the machine are represented (No. 15) by a single reflection, making them appear brighter even if they are in the shade, compared to objects placed on other sides, which can only be seen through a double reflection.
24. The objects on both sides of the machine are represented by the mirror H, located (No. 11) as seen in the figure. This mirror is covered with a tower or cardboard box, open on the side of the objects, and also on the side of opening N of box X. One must take this precaution, for if the mirror is left entirely exposed, it will reflect on mirror L the rays of light coming from this side, which after being reflected by mirror L upon entering the convex glass, will greatly weaken the representation. The objects in front of the machine are represented as mentioned in Nos. 21 & 22.
Translation Notes: "Camera obscura" refers to a darkened enclosure in which images of outside objects are projected by lenses onto a surface. "Reflection" and "convex glass" relate to optical concepts used extensively in drawing and scientific exploration during the era.