SEATTLE, WA — Entrepreneur and software industry giant Bill Gates recently spoke in favor of sex worker rights during his keynote speech during the opening of the 16th International AIDS Conference in Toronto, Canada. Now Corbis, his photo rights company, has become the first visual solutions provider permitted to license archival Playboy images.The company announced yesterday that it will add the quintessential bunny related visuals to its copious collection of digital media. Although part of a continuing trend to license content, this is the first time that Playboy Enterprises has allowed its imagery to be licensed for commercial use in such a way.

Retro imagery spanning the rich erotic history of the magazine, including illustrations, photos of founder Hugh Hefner and his Bunnies, modern classics, and general lifestyle shots will all be available via Corbis.

Because of the broader customer base enjoyed by Corbis, Playboy expects to be able to extend the reach of its photos, which celebrating its tradition of style and sensual elegance.

Both Corbis and Playboy Enterprises are delighted by the arrangement, with Gary Shenk, senior vice president of images at the visual solutions provider stating that “Playboy sets the gold standard as an international consumer brand. Their images are classic, iconic, fun, and connect with people in the same way Playboy always has.” According to Shenk, Corbis is “thrilled to partner with Playboy, making the images available around the world.”

A celebration to honor the importance of this new partnership will be held at the Victor Hotel on Thursday, September 7th in Chicago and will include a party and sneak preview of the collection, which will be expanded over time.

Both Christie Hefner and Corbis’ Chief Creative Officer Ross Sutherland will be on hand for the event. They will be joined by Playboy’s 2003 Playmate of the Year, Christine Santiago.