Warning
Info
Warning
Info
Simple English definitions for legal terms
applied-art doctrine
Read a random definition: mutuality doctrine
A quick definition of applied-art doctrine:
The applied-art doctrine is a rule that says a picture, drawing, or sculpture that has a practical use and is also a form of expression can be protected by copyright. For example, things like bookends, lamps, and sundials can be protected by copyright because they are both useful and artistic. However, things like industrial designs cannot be protected by copyright, but they can be protected by design patents instead.
A more thorough explanation:
The applied-art doctrine is a rule that states that a work of art that has a practical use and is also expressive can be protected by copyright. This means that if a piece of art has a function beyond just being looked at, it can still be protected by copyright law.
For example, bookends, lamps, and sundials are all examples of works of art that have a practical use. They are not just decorative, but they also serve a purpose. Even though they have a function, they can still be protected by copyright law because they are also expressive works of art.
Another example of a work of art that could be protected by copyright under the applied-art doctrine is a decorative vase that is also functional as a water pitcher. The vase is not just decorative, but it also has a practical use, which means it could be protected by copyright law.
Overall, the applied-art doctrine allows for works of art that have a practical use to still be protected by copyright law, as long as they are also expressive works of art.