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Lawyer For Local Artist Who Painted Pope Portrait Negotiating With Getty

By Mark Abrams

UPPER MAKEFIELD TWP., Pa. (CBS) - A lawyer representing a Bucks County artist who painted the official portrait of Pope Francis to mark his Philadelphia visit has opened talks with an international photo service.

Richmond, Virginia-based entertainment lawyer Kirk Schroeder confirms he initiated negotiations with Getty Images after a news outlet compared the painting of Pope Francis by Bucks County artist Perry Milou with a photograph in the international provider's files and saw similarities.

"I don't have any indication that the Getty folks want to shut the use of the image off," says Schroeder. "I think it's just a question of what they believe is fair in relation to what Mr. Milou believes is fair, and I think we're making good progress."

Schroeder says he's seeking a financial arrangement under which Milou's art can still be used:

"Everything from a share of revenue to a simple flat payment or some other formula. So, yes, in the larger sense it is a license. And the license essentially is to address any claim that Getty would have in relation to Perry's rights."

Schroeder says Milou acknowledges he consulted many online photos of Pope Francis for inspiration, but insists his portrait called "The Prayer for Peace" is his vision of the pontiff.

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