The fine carving and multicolored floral motifs on this wooden box are hallmarks of a style of Norwegian folk painting called Rosemaling. This technique first developed in the 18th century as a method of decorating the interiors of wooden churches, and was later used to embellish household objects of all kinds.

Isabella probably purchased this cabinet on her trip to Norway in the summer of 1867. She was intrigued by Scandinavian folk culture, and had a series of photographs taken of herself in traditional Norwegian dress during her visit.