Mark Wagner wrote:
On 4/6/06, Robth robth1@gmail.com wrote:
I didn't have any luck getting an answer to this on the wiki, so I'll try asking here. I've been using the {{pd-art}} tag for Greek vase paintings I've uploaded, but before I really go hog wild and start uploading these on a large scale I'd like to be sure that this would be a good idea. So, two questions:
I am not a lawyer, but IIRC, Bridgeman v Corel only applies to two-dimensional copies of two-dimensional works (though it may apply to three-dimensional copies of three-dimensional works). The basis of it is that a "slavishly accurate" copy of a work involves no creative effort, and so cannot establish a copyright separate from that of the original. Photographing a 3D work involves creative effort, in the choice of lighting and camera angle.
On the other hand, while that makes sense for pictures of the vases, the situation could be different if the pictures Robth is referring to are attempts to accurately reproduce the painting _on_ the vase. In such a case, I can't see the curvature of the surface making any difference.
But yes, it's a hairy situation. I can imagine cases where the answer would seem to be obviously yes or obviously no, but most actual images probably fall somewhere in the grey area between the two. In those cases, one would have to ask someone who actually knows about these things, rather than random IANALs on the net like me.