Creating unique metal artworks requires immense skill and creativity, making intellectual property protection crucial for sculptors. To safeguard their original designs, artists employ several legal and practical strategies.

First, copyright registration is the most common method. Once a sculpture is fixed in a tangible form, it automatically gains copyright protection in many countries. However, formally registering the work strengthens legal claims and provides evidence of ownership. Sculptors should document their creative process with dated sketches, photos, and material receipts.

For commissioned pieces, clear contracts are essential. These agreements should specify ownership rights, reproduction limits, and attribution requirements. Some artists use non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) when collaborating with foundries or assistants to prevent design theft.

Technological measures like digital watermarking or embedded RFID tags help authenticate genuine pieces. Many sculptors also maintain detailed records of each work's provenance, including photographs from multiple angles and certificates of authenticity.

In cases of potential infringement, artists can send cease-and-desist letters or pursue legal action. Some join collective rights organizations that monitor and enforce copyright protections. Additionally, displaying copyright notices (©) near signatures or on plaques deters casual copying.

Emerging technologies like blockchain are being explored for creating tamper-proof ownership records. Ultimately, a combination of legal knowledge, documentation practices, and proactive measures helps metal sculptors protect their valuable intellectual property in the competitive art world.