....likely not too far from the truth, except the magic carpets were sail, then later steam!

The cultural and economic exchange was going on through the East India Company starting in the 1600s. For centuries, England being an island nation of sea faring traders had unrivaled access to world markets.

No doubt commerce, particularly with the older civilizations such as India included the exchanges of ideas and technology not just raw materials.

Even without the possible technological underpinnings, "British Orientalism" and the oriental esthetic may have influenced the barrel patterns. During the time-frame in question (circa 1800s), oriental themes and tastes (e.g., carpets, tea and fine china) were high fashion.

Doug