I use a lot of pics on my blog that are in the public domain. Honestly, my blog is just a fun little blog where I place my thoughts and ask some questions. (OK, I brag sometimes, too. Who doesn't? And there are those links that offer my books for sale.)
But what if I want to use a public domain pic on one of my book covers? Is that allowed? Is it really an "anything goes" type of thing or do some rules of ethics apply?
Why do I ask? I found the perfect painting for an upcoming Regency. (No, it's not the one pictured here.) I really want to use it. The painting was done in 1795-6 and the artist died in 1835. The pic I found is a faithful representation of that two-dimensional work of art. This qualifies it as public domain and, I believe, would also allow me to use it for my cover, should I choose to do so. Is there an ethical reason why I shouldn't? What do you think?
For that matter, does anyone know of a place I can get high resolution photos of Regency art for free or affordable prices? If not, I will stick to using my own photographs on my covers.
Thank you for your time. As always, happy reading, writing, and blogging!
