An Italian company specializing in coffins has come up with anovel idea of selling its products by unveiling its 2008 calendar with scantily-clad models posing behind its caskets.

Maurizio Matteucci, owner of Cofanifunebri, said his calendars are available at his company outlets for $14.23.

A life-size nude self-portrait woven on a monk's cloth, vanished Monday night from Linfield College where it was being exhibited.

Tamera Bremer was visibly upset when her life-size nude self-portrait titled "the sexy sex: all-nude review rug one," was stolen from the exhibit.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth has selected a little-known jeweler to become the next Crown Jeweler.

Harry Collins is expected to take over the coveted post after the current Crown Jeweler David Thomas, who is employed by luxury jewelry company Garrard, retires later this year.

Dutch cabinet maker Mario Phippona's latest design of erotic furniture are on display at a top German art gallery, Amadeus Art in Berlin. The designs offer a wide range of wooden cupboards, wardrobes and tables inspired by the female anatomy.

One of the items on display is a fruit bowl called "TittyFuity," which is decorated with realistically shaped, life-size wooden breasts.

Retailers say sexy trumps traditional this year when it comes to Halloween costumes. But the princess costume remains the most popular for children.

According to a National Retail Federation survey, 34 percent of adults dress in costume on Halloween. This has been an increasing number for years. Halloween spending has also increased to $5 billion, behind the top holidays for spending -- Father's Day, Mother's Day, Easter, Valentines Day, and Christmas.