Vellum paper, a term derived from the old French vélin, meaning ‘calfskin’ or ‘calf leather’, is a type of parchment which is very useful for printing highly detailed images.
The first work depicts Saint Jerome, dressed as a cardinal and carrying the model of a temple in his right hand, alluding to his condition of founder of monasteries of his order. At his feet lies the lion that was his companion during the many years when he was a penitent in the Holy Land. His figure stands out against a blue background which shows a subtle landscape of trees.
The second painting represents a friar of the Order of St. Jerome who seems to be Friar Fernando Yáñez, according to the interpretation of the flames that appear to the right, coming from behind a column.