In general the rules for copyists are the same in all museums. The authorities must first be satisfied as to the character and artistic ability of the applicant. Second, copyists can only be admitted on pay days. (This often gives rise to much complaint on the part of the people who have paid to get in! On the other hand it is difficult, if not impossible, for a copyist to work on a crowded day, and they are much more in the way when there are many people all trying to see at once.) Third, the copy should not be the exact size of the original. Fourth, the copyist must provide a good-sized cloth to lay on the floor under the easel. Fifth, the copyist must not engage in conversation with the public, nor offer his work for sale. The museum is a place for serious study, not a shop. Sixth, every copy made in the museum must be taken to the office when completed. There it will be examined by the director and clearly marked "COPY" on the back of the canvas before it may be taken from the building.
In some American museums the third rule is now done away with, as the marking of "COPY" on the back of the finished picture is considered a sufficient safeguard. For an interesting discussion of this subject see in Schinkel's letters, vol. II, p. 321, Wilhelm Freiherr von Humboldt, Aug. 21, 1830, on Copying in Galleries.
