Abstract:
When the printing press and the movable type were first introduced in Iran during the 19th century, a large number of books were published and distributed. But since the general public was very much interested in illustrated books (which had its roots in the historical past and in the fine and elaborate illuminated manuscripts) the moveable type was soon replaced by lithographed books which could easily include and print fine, imaginative and elaborate illustrations, without the help of photographic methods and techniques.
In some 19th century lithographed books published in Iran, one can notice the evidence of early attempts at Copy Righting printed materials in that century. In a number of lithographed books, there is the signature of the Minister of Culture and Information (Etemad al-Saltaneh) , who has indicated the publishing rights of the publisher and the printing run. These are the first sings of publishing rights in Persian printing history.
This paper will focus on some of these cases, and will discuss the impact of the practice in those formative days.
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