What is the meaning of 'droit de suite'?

'Droit de suite' refers to the right of artists to receive royalties from the resale of their works. This concept is rooted in the idea that artists should benefit financially from the increased value of their creations. When an artwork is resold, the original artist can claim a percentage of the sale price, thereby ensuring that they continue to receive financial rewards throughout their career and beyond, as the artwork changes hands over time.

This practice supports artists, particularly in the visual arts, by acknowledging the ongoing value their work generates, which contrasts with traditional copyright laws that primarily focus on the rights of the original creator at the time of the initial sale. The concept is particularly prominent in several European countries and is increasingly recognized in other jurisdictions, expanding the economic rights of artists in relation to their works.