What it does
The Yale Center for British Art supplies collection images through its online catalogue. Eligible Open Access images are free to use, while each object record identifies rights that may restrict other works.
Look beneath an object’s image for its rights status and download link. If the image is missing or you need a different size or format, use Request Photography or Request Additional Photography on that record. Open Access use needs no separate application or payment to Yale.
For publication work, preserve the file’s embedded colour profile. The Center’s imaging guidance says its IPTC Instructions field may flag older film scans, altered images or reproduction limitations. Request a larger file rather than enlarging a small download.
The collection also supports IIIF, which lets compatible viewers compare and annotate images across collections. Copyrighted works may appear only as thumbnails, and rights in an artwork and its photograph can differ.
Strengths
- Object records link rights information directly to downloads and photography requests.
- Technical guidance and IIIF support help with publication and image research.
Watch out for
- A visible thumbnail does not establish permission to reproduce the work.
Best for
- Publishers preparing British art images for print
- Researchers comparing works across museum collections