China and Lebanon are both cradles of ancient civilizations. In modern times, both countries have been experiencing rapid changes. This week, some of Lebanon's best contemporary artworks arrived in Beijing for an exhibition.

After opening on Friday night, the show has drawn crowds to the exhibition hall of the Capital Library in eastern Beijing.

With a background of classical music played by a string quartet, the opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials from both countries.

The paintings on display represent virtually all the major fine artists in Lebanon today. Ranging widely in styles and approaches, the works are a chronicle of various trends dominating the country's contemporary art scene. The fusion of a thousand-year-old culture with the freshest modern ideas is very evident in the show.

As part of the Meet in Beijing series of Olympic cultural events, the exhibition will entertain Beijing's art lovers for several weeks to come.