Contracted in 1737 by the Spanish court at the initiative of Queen Isabel de Farnésio, the renowned castrato Carlo Broschi, known as Farinelli, established a privileged relationship with Maria Barbara de Bragança and Fernando de Bourbon, then the Prince and Princess of Asturias. After their ascension to the throne in 1746, the celebrated Italian singer assumed an even more prominent role and played a decisive part in directing the musical life of the court and the artistic management of the royal theaters.

To document his activities, he compiled a precious two-volume manuscript titled Description of the current state of the Royal Theater of Buen Retiro: of the functions held in it from the year 1747 to the present, of its members, salaries, and duties, as expressed in this first book. The second book outlines The diversions that their Majesties hold annually at the Royal site of Aranjuez / arranged by Don Carlos Broschi Farinelo, familiar servant of their Majesties. Year 1758.