LG Düsseldorf, Urt. v. 13.01.2021, 12 O 240/20 – Rheinturm-Lichtinstallation

The projection of coloured surfaces onto the shaft of the Düsseldorf Rhine Tower significantly alters its architecture, as a result of which intrinsic features of an older work (referred to as the “Rheinkomet® light installation”) recede to such an extent that the new work no longer uses them to the relevant extent, but they only appear as a stimulus for new, independent work creation.

The ring-shaped fanning out of light beams which are brought together to form a synchronous bundle beam constitute in this respect a part of an (earlier) already protected light installation which is not eligible for protection.

The Düsseldorf Regional Court has decided that the Rheinkomet® light installation from 2016 is protected by copyright, but another light show from 2020 does not infringe this copyright.

We are looking forward to many more beautiful far-radiating light shows at and with the Rhine Tower.