The estate of Notorious B.I.G., Republic Merchandising (their IP company), and photographer Barron Claiborne have filed a lawsuit in Illinois federal court against multiple defendants, including canvas-art company iCanvas and major retailers like Home Depot, Target, and Nordstrom.
The case centers on the iconic “King of New York” photograph, taken by Claiborne three days before Biggie’s death in 1997, showing the rapper wearing a plastic crown (which later sold at auction for nearly $600,000).
Key Photo Infringement Allegations
The filed lawsuit alleges that iCanvas began infringing on Biggie’s name, image, likeness, trademarks, and the photograph in 2015. The company created 108 SKUs based on the photo after receiving artwork from two individuals, Major retailers then sold these allegedly infringing products. The suit states that iCanvas either lacked proper IP vetting procedures or failed to use them effectively.
Where the Copyright Infringement Case Stands
In 2023, iCanvas removed identified products when contacted but allegedly left other infringing items up. The company refused to provide information about the artists who submitted the work. Most retailers removed the products after being notified, except Bed Bath & Beyond (which has since complied).
The lawsuit seeks damages for multiple violations:
- Copyright infringement of the photograph
- Trademark infringement
- False advertising
- Unfair competition
- Publicity law violations
The plaintiffs indicate they plan to add more defendants to the lawsuit as it proceeds. The case highlights ongoing challenges with unauthorized use of celebrity images and intellectual property in the retail market.