This cabinet — possibly made from components of earlier furniture — displays an intricate design of veneers and inlays. It bears the influence of the ornate French Rococo revival popular in England from the middle of the eighteenth century, which gave way to a neoclassical style by the end of the century. The light satinwood used for the decorative birds, flowers and vases was likely sourced from India or another colonial outpost.

Marquetry is a technique of cabinetmaking in which patterns and pictures are created with thin inlaid wood. It was developed in Antwerp and other Flemish cities during the early sixteenth century. French artisans later adopted the technique in the production of luxury furniture for the Court of Versailles and residences of Louis XIV. Marquetry furniture was introduced to England following the restoration of the monarchy under Charles II, around 1660.