An Italian Silver "Naturalistic" Fruit Basket Centerpiece Bowl and Cover, Mario Buccellati, Milan, 20th century. photo courtesy Sotheby's

the oval basket centerpiece formed of woven bands, the lift-off cover realistically modeled as a mound of fruit, nuts and leaves including grape bunches dates, figs, lemons, apples, pears, walnuts and almonds, the handle formed as grapevine; center of bowl marked M. Buccellati, underside of cover applied with signature plaque of Mario Buccellati, with original blue presentation box; length 47cm; weight 5878g - Estimate 20,000—30,000 USD. Lot Sold 43,750 USD

Important English & Continental Silver & Objects of Vertu, 21 Oct 10. New York www.sothebys.com