Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin (1812-52) is widely considered as one of the most significant and influential architects, designers and theorists of the 19th century. Following his conversion to Catholicism in 1835, he identified the Gothic style with Christian architecture and his work and writings inspired and framed the Gothic Revival. In 'Contrasts', published in 1836, he condemned classical forms and ardently praised 14th and 15th-century architecture. Pugin is best remembered for his work on the Palace of Westminster, in which he was responsible for much of the interior decoration. The Palace, commonly known as the Houses of Parliament, was reconstructed in the Gothic style from 1840 following a devastating fire.

This design shows signs of not being fully worked out: the five- sided palmette has a stump of a stalk which does not lead anywhere. The drawing may not be in Pugin's hand. It is possible that this design was one of those intended for the internal decoration of the Houses of Parliament, but there is no evidence that it was ever used. Exotic fruits such as pineapples and pomegranites have a long history as popular artistic motifs, symbolising opulence, power and hospitality.