"Basket of fruit"

Two masterpieces by the Renaissance painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio will make their debuts in China during the 2010 World Expo on the 400th anniversary of the artist's death.

The "Basket of fruit" and the "Boy with a basket of fruit" will be displayed at the Italy Pavilion, in dedication to the showcase of Italian way of life as well as a reminder of the relationship between nature and mankind, Beniamino Quintieri, Italy's Expo commissioner general, told a press conference yesterday.

Various temporary exhibitions will focus on design, technological innovation, contemporary art and architecture.

A workshop inside the pavilion will show people at work with special skills: experts working on restoration of ancient relics, craftsmen making shoes, clothes, jewelry and violins, illustrators, pastry chefs, and others.

Several performances have also been scheduled. The list includes Puccini's classic opera La Boheme performed by Turin Royal Theatre, traditional Neapolitan music by artists Renzo Arbore and Massimo Ranieri, music scores by Oscar winner composer Ennio Morricone, pop singer Giorgia Fumanti, Roberto Bolle ballet and Piazza Vittorio Orchestra.

Luxury brands will be on display with their latest collections. The pavilion's staff will wear Prada and Ferrari will display its exclusive new model of hybrid car next to a rare model of Isotta Fraschini, the most luxurious collector car. Bulgari will show its fabulous collection of jewelry.

Editor: Hu Min