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A 1909 Pablo Picasso painting titled Compotier et tasse ( Fruit bowl and cup), with an estimated worth of US$11.5-million, will be held by U.S. authorities for the Italian government pending the outcome of criminal proceedings against its owner in Italy, according to the terms of a judge’s order signed Monday. U.S. Justice Department authorities assumed control of the painting, pictured, after U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero signed the order following a formal request by the government of Italy. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Washington said that Italian authorities requested the seizure after the painting’s owner was charged with embezzlement and fraudulent bankruptcy offences in Italy.