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    BEIJING, April 10 -- Keira Knightley has generously agreed to donate her custom-made Vera Wang gown from the 2006 Academy Awards to Oxfam's auction. All proceeds will support Oxfam's life-saving work in East Africa.

    The Vera Wang bordeaux silk taffeta, draped, one-shoulder gown with grand bottom flounce was worn to the Oscars by Knightley, who was nominated this year for Best Actress for her role in "Pride and Prejudice." The dress will be on exhibit in New York City at the Vera Wang Flagship store on 991 Madison Avenue from April 19 until the end of the auction on April 30.

    "This is such an amazing dress and I am really pleased to be able to donate it to Oxfam," said Knightley. ?¡ãI have seen the TV reports on the horrendous drought in East Africa and I know how desperate things have become, so I am happy to be able to do something to help.?¡À

    "Keira represents the essence of youth, intelligence and beauty! She is a young woman with a conscience. I am thrilled this gown can support such an important cause," says Vera Wang.