An exhibition presenting dedicated book signs, Ex libris, is on in Beijing. It's the "International Exlibris Exhibition of World Famous Artists." It's an important component of the 32nd International Exlibris Congress and it's on at the Beijing World Art Museum. The gathering is a rare opportunity for Exlibris artists and collectors to exchange their views about enhancing the influence of the art of bookplate.

Ex libris meaning - a bookplate - translates from the Latin as "from the books". The bookplate is usually a small graphic print bearing the owner's name, on the inside cover of books. It serves to substantiate that the book is a part of a certain collection. Ex libris was meant to protect books from thievery, for decoration and as a statement of ownership.

Bookplates have existed since the first printed books appeared, in mid-15th Century Germany. Since then, people of many generations have been drawn to this unusual art form.

The 20th Century brought emancipation. Ex libris was separated from the book, taking its own place as an object for collectors and exhibitors. With books now being digitized in libraries and personal collections, present day artists worry about the future of the graphic art.

At present, exlibris is also transported all over the world in collectors portfolios as objects for exchange and purchase.

The works on show were created between 2006 and 2008 by more than 800 artists from 40 countries and regions. The activities of the International Exlibris Congress also include an award ceremony for winning artists, a forum and an exchange fair.