Sly plotters - I need your tips to get him to return my gift to me?

[Derogations]

I stupidly gave something precious to a man who did not deserve it. I should have known better, I know I know.

But now, this picture is on his wall (too far away to stage a break in). We are in occasional wary message contact.

Any suggestions? Really would like it back…

Just ask?

Did you request it back?

I think I will need to go in softer, so he doesn’t take fright.

Is it an original painting?

It is an original

Ask to borrow it so you can make a copy?

Then don't return it

All you can do is ask him really. As a previous poster said you could ask him if you could take a copy of it but then he might do that for you.

Ask him.
Or, get a copy made. Invite yourself to stay at his place. Swap them when he’s asleep.
Leave.

Say you are doing an 6 week art class and want to paint it. A photo won’t do as you need to see the brush strokes.