The ivory inlay is typical of the neo-renaissance designs of Stephen Webb, who collaborated with G.J.S. Lock on a number of pieces and was a key figure in the revival of the use of ivory inlay in the last quarter of the 19th century.
The third Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society (1890) showed three pieces of rosewood furniture designed by Lock, including one described as follows: "Exhibit 338. A Rosewood and Ivory Cabinet, designed by G.J.S. Lock. Inlay designed and engraved by Stephen Webb, cut by J. Smith, cabinet work by J. Carver", and it is believed that this entry describes the present cabinet.