Art Law in Ireland

Art Law in Ireland explores legal issues relating to art and cultural heritage in Ireland — from artists’ rights and copyright to cultural property, restitution, museums, collections and the art market.

Ronan Bergin
Solicitor · Dublin

  • Who Owns the Bewley’s Harry Clarke Windows?

    The well-known stained-glass windows in Bewley’s Café by Harry Clarke were the subject of a High Court case back in the beginning of the year.[1] It was an ownership dispute which involved technical arguments about the status of the works; whether they are windows (which would form part of the building), or independent artworks (fixtures).…

    Who Owns the Bewley’s Harry Clarke Windows?

  • Portrait of Omai and Export Rules for Cultural Objects

    This portrait was painted by Sir. Joshua Reynolds in about 1776. It was recently the subject of a national campaign in the UK to ‘save’ it for the nation. ‘Saving’ it meant acquiring it for value from its Irish owner, John Magnier, by utilising rules relating to the exportation of significant works of art and…

    Portrait of Omai and Export Rules for Cultural Objects