The 19th China (Zibo) International Ceramics Exposition kicked off on Sept 6 in Zibo, East China's Shandong province.

Zibo is a major production and export base for glass and everyday ceramics in China. The city is widely regarded as the birthplace of Chinese ceramics.

Its connections to the porcelain industry date back more than 10,000 years, according to discoveries made at an archeological dig in a cave in Yiyuan, a county of the city.

Dozens of well-preserved ancient kiln sites can still be seen in the city.

The expo, which will last until Sept 9, has attracted the participation of 42 enterprises from the country's major ceramic production bases, including Jiangxi province's Jingdezhen, Jiangsu province's Yixing, Hunan province's Liling and Zhejiang province's Longquan.

In addition, 61 ceramic and porcelain masters will also showcase their exquisite works and excellent craft at the expo.

About 19 porcelain and ceramic companies and 10 glazed glass companies from Zibo are also displaying their latest products at the expo.

One highlight is a presentation of works by the Lomonosov Imperial Porcelain Factory, which was founded in St Petersburg in 1744 under the decree of Tsar Peter the Great's daughter.

According to the event's organizers, the expo has attracted about 200 professional buyers from 18 countries and regions including Japan, South Korea, Russia, Italy and Turkey.

A series of activities will take place during the event, including exhibitions, competitions, promotions, interactive exhibits and forums.

Visitors are enchanted by a porcelain master's exquisite skills at the 19th China (Zibo) International Ceramics Exposition. [Photo/dzwww.com]

A mom shows her son exhibits at the expo. [Photo/dzwww.com]

An exquisite teapot goes on display at the expo. [Photo/dzwww.com]

A rich selection of ceramic artworks is available to see at the expo. [Photo/dzwww.com]