Peacock Chair (1947). [Photo provided to China Daily]

"It shows the audience an interesting comparison between wood as a raw material and the possibilities it can achieve," Messerschmidt says.

The exhibits have the names of both designers and artisans, conveying a message that a quality product can not be made without the concerted effort of creative and skilled people.

Messerschmidt says one reason for the rise of Danish design is the equal respect it pays to artisans.

Several artists shown at the exhibition were first trained as woodworkers or hail from artisan families. Messerschmidt says the audience and collectors value the contribution, too.

If you go

10 am-6 pm, through April 22, Mondays closed. 706 Bei Yi Jie, 2 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang district, Beijing. 010-5762-6100.