He has offered creditors his two yachts, among other treasures, to offset part of the debt.

ECONOMIST: Plenty of crying over spilt milk | The

Yet Italy is home to an astounding two-thirds of the world's art treasures, according to UNESCO, giving the government a sense of global responsibility.

WSJ: The Fashion Set Saves Italy

Two incidents this week highlight this, both involving the prospective donation of family treasures.

FORBES: Donating an Archive? Your Book Collection? Get an Appraisal