The Getty has launched its Open Content Program with the aim of sharing its digital resources as widely and freely as possible. They are starting with material from the museum but will be adding content from the Research Institute and Conservation Institutes over time. These images can be used “for any purpose without first seeking permission from the Getty” – that’s right, any purpose, although you do need to inform them when using Getty images in publications. To get a taste of what’s available so far, you can browse the collections here. To download a high-res copy, click on the Primary Title link of the work you want and select Download beneath the image thumbnail.
Read more about this initiative on the Getty blog, The Iris