Albrecht durer four horseman of the apocalypse is it public domain?

Answer 1

In the strictest sense, yes...it would be public domain. Most countries, including the U.S. and Germany, grant copyright protection up to 70 years after the death of the creator. Copyright laws apply to written works, visual arts, theater, etc., so a print would typically fall under copyright law.

However, the image - i.e., a photo, of the work could be considered to be protected by copyright law. The photographer (and his/her family) retains the rights to that image up to 70 years after his/her death.

In other words, while you could create your own image - whether by photo or sketch - and likely be able to use it without penalty, you cannot use an image that someone else has created (like a photo from a museum catalog) without express permission.

Side note - In the U.S., you are considered to own the copyright from the moment of creation. Registering with the Library of Congress is a formality. However, if you're not going to register, it's best to document the how and when of creation.