This workshop design for a pier-glass demonstrates John Linnell’s use of rococo forms to compose his designs. The rococo style became extremely popular in Britain from around 1730 and is characterised by curvaceous naturalistic forms, asymmetry and, as within this design, rocaille (frilly and often water-like decorative carving). The basket of flowers which surmounts the frame was a common feature used by Linnell within many of his designs. This motif can be seen on a pair of mirrors attributed to the Linnell firm which were at Bramshill House, Hampshire, probably made for Sir Monoux Cope ca.1760.

Pier-glasses were a popular form of 18^th century furnishing and were commonly placed on the wall in between two windows (known as the pier wall). Extremely elaborate pier glasses, such as the ones designed by John Linnell, were often used to emphasise the grandeur of a wealthy household. They were also important sources of light during the 18^th century and they would reflect the light from candles back into the room. Pier-glasses of this design could have been used within state rooms such as drawing rooms (where other rococo-inspired furniture would be placed) as well as the more private rooms of the household.