Page:Copyright, Its History And Its Law (1912).djvu/436

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404
COPYRIGHT

acknowledgment and that the meaning shall not be distorted. Extracts are permitted under specified limitations. Poems may be used as set to music unless distinctively intended for that purpose; and musical compositions, except operas and the like, may be played for charity purposes or by musical societies for members and their families.

Art provi-
sions
In the case of a work of art, reproduction for personal use and gratuitously is permitted, but during an author's life only by photographic means; this permission authorizes only, as to a work of architecture, reproduction of exterior aspect and not of the work upon the ground. The person ordering a portrait is entitled to reproduce it, except on agreement to the contrary. Reproduction and exhibition are permitted of portraits in contemporary history or when accessories, as in a landscape or part of a procession or assemblage, or in the interest of art if not made to order,—provided this is not to the injury of the reputation of the original; or in the interest of justice or public safety. Reproductions of works standing permanently in public places are permitted, but these may not be affixed to a work of architecture.

Piracy Piracy is punished by damages and a statutory fine, or imprisonment in case of intentional infringement, but proceedings must be commenced within three years. The law provides for committees of experts in the several states under regulations of the imperial government to act as arbiters or to advise the justices; and there is final appeal to the Supreme Court of the Empire.

Foreign
citizens

The law protects all works of a subject of the German Empire and works of aliens, if published within the Empire before previous publication elsewhere, the latter clause a change from the former practice of protecting works by a foreigner if published by a