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Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/q/27345
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

I have a question regarding the legality of using a _real museum and real artifacts_ in my _Heist book_ which is almost ready for publication. Initially, it will be self-published via the amazon kindle route.

The book involves a criminal gang who steal well-known artefacts from a UK museum. I have contacted the museums press office and explained the premises, and asked them if they would grant permission, or point me in the direction of someone who can. But unfortunately it appears from their non-response they don't want to play ball.

Having read dozens of very successful fictional novels which involve the theft of real artifacts and antiquities, from both museums and private collections around the world. I'm wondering how the authors get permission, or if indeed they do need permission to base a novel around places and objects that are clearly in the public domain. Maybe it's their publishers who do this, or their agents?

I would be extremely grateful to hear from anyone on the Stack-Exchange who has experience with this kind of issue.

Many thanks in advance. Jon

Original score: 11