China's Copyright Law says copyright in a commissioned work follows the contract; without a clear agreement it belongs to the commissioned creator. A ceramic commission should define design sources, revisions, credit, reproduction, promotion and deliverables.
Separate the physical object, design files and copyright
China's Copyright Law says copyright in a commissioned work follows the parties' contract; without a clear agreement, it belongs to the commissioned creator. Transfer of ownership of an original object does not itself transfer copyright.
Paying for a custom vase therefore does not automatically grant reproduction, adaptation, online communication or commercial production rights. The studio's ability to display, photograph or reuse the design should also be stated.
Turn design inputs and uses into enforceable terms
Identify who supplies wording, photographs, trademarks, motifs and references, and who confirms the right to use them. An image found online is not permission. Define the object, size, material, sample, colour tolerance, revision rounds, schedule and acceptable firing variation.
Specify the rights, territory, term, exclusivity, reproduction and sale, adaptation, credit, and whether the studio may use the work in exhibitions, social media or a portfolio. A vague sentence saying 'copyright belongs to the client' may not answer every use case.
Separate files, objects and acceptance at delivery
State whether delivery includes finished pieces, drawings, source files, firing tests or moulds, and any separate fee. Acceptance should record quantity, dimensional range, visible defects, packing, refiring and transit damage, with agreed boundaries for handmade and kiln variation.
For an international brand, production run or high-value commission, seek professional legal review. A multilingual guide may help communicate the brief but cannot make copyright promises or provide legal advice for either party.